Description
Discover how to make the best cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with our step-by-step easy recipe for the best flavor. This vibrant sauce is bursting with fresh, sweet tomato goodness, perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus more for garnish
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 1/2 – 1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Halve cherry tomatoes, mince garlic, and roughly chop basil.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3. Simmer Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes burst.
- 4. Reduce Sauce: Uncover, gently crush any unburst tomatoes. Simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce.
- 5. Finish with Herbs: Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- 6. Combine with Pasta: Cook spaghetti al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and add to the sauce. Toss with reserved pasta water until coated and glossy. Serve immediately with extra basil and grated cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins