Cherry Tomato Spaghetti Sauce
This Cherry Tomato Spaghetti Sauce is a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make pasta sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes. Made with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, this sauce is naturally rich in flavor without needing canned tomatoes. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping, this homemade sauce is a must-try for any Italian food lover!
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or saucepan
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 colander (for draining pasta if serving with spaghetti)
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for extra richness
- 1 tbsp butter optional, for a silkier texture
For Serving (Optional):
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- Additional Parmesan cheese and basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the oil.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst.
Step 3: Simmer and Blend Flavors
- Lightly mash the tomatoes with a spoon to release their juices.
- Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
- Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- If desired, add a tablespoon of butter to enhance the sauce’s richness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Toss the sauce with cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
- Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, blend the cooked sauce with an immersion blender or food processor.
- For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar while the sauce simmers.
- Want more protein? Stir in cooked shrimp, chicken, or crumbled Italian sausage.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese for a creamy version.