Description
This vibrant and intensely flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe is a testament to simple ingredients creating extraordinary taste. Roasting cherry tomatoes concentrates their sweetness, resulting in a naturally rich and unforgettable sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 900g) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4–5 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pat dry cherry tomatoes. Spread them in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Add smashed garlic cloves. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat.
- Roast Tomatoes: Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes are blistered, some have burst, and the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Blitz Sauce: Carefully transfer roasted tomatoes, garlic, and all pan juices to a blender or food processor. Add half of the fresh basil. Pulse until desired consistency is reached (chunky or smoother).
- Simmer & Season: Pour sauce into a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Stir in remaining fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm over your favorite pasta!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins