Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a burst of vibrant flavors? This Cherry Tomato Spaghetti Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the freshest ingredients that Italian cuisine has to offer! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, perfect for impressing family and friends or indulging in a cozy night in. With juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing and your kitchen filled with irresistible aromas. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality pasta dish at home!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 500g cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife or garlic press.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm but not smoke.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the skillet with the garlic, increasing heat to medium-high.
- Cook the tomatoes for 8-10 minutes, gently pressing them with a wooden spoon to release their juices and create a sauce-like consistency.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Season the tomato sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving a small cup of pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with tomato sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle over the pasta just before serving.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Select the Best Tomatoes: For the most flavorful sauce, choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes. Look for ones that are firm and shiny, as they will enhance the overall taste of your dish.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it. You want it to be golden and fragrant, not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining. This can be a game-changer for adjusting the sauce consistency, helping it cling perfectly to the spaghetti.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Adding fresh basil just before serving brightens up the dish with a burst of flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or oregano for a different twist!
- Customize Your Seasoning: Taste your sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat!
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right away for the ultimate taste experience, and don’t forget to drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 247kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
