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cherry tomato pasta sauce

A fresh and vibrant cherry tomato pasta sauce that is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: main, sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Sauce Ingredients
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
Pasta
  • 12 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice

Method
 

Prepare the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Make the Sauce
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft and saucy.
  3. Stir in the chopped basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Combine and Serve
  1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  2. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to the sauce if the tomatoes are too acidic.