Description
Discover how to make the best cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with our easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe. Perfect for a delicious weeknight meal that’s bursting with fresh flavor!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup – 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients & Cook Pasta: Wash tomatoes; halve larger ones. Mince garlic and dice onion. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, generously salting the water. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- 3. Cook Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will burst and release juices. Gently smash some with a spoon to create a saucier consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in fresh oregano and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
- 5. Combine & Serve: Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat. Stir in most of the fresh basil. If needed, add more pasta water, 1 tbsp at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins