Description
Create a rich, flavorful, and incredibly vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with this easy-to-follow recipe. Bursting with fresh flavors, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) fresh cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Pinch of sugar to balance acidity
- For serving: Cooked spaghetti, freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Aromatics: Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Have all ingredients ready before starting.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt; cook until translucent (5-7 mins). Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); cook until fragrant (1 minute).
- 3. Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- 4. Burst & Thicken: Uncover and increase heat slightly. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, gently burst the tomatoes. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- 5. Finish & Season: Stir in fresh basil and oregano. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed. Serve hot over spaghetti with Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins