Simple Cherry Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil and Garlic
If you’re searching for a quick and flavorful sauce to elevate your meals, look no further than this Cherry Tomato Sauce. With its vibrant color and rich taste, this sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a topping for grilled meats. Made with fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil, it’s a versatile recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and started to break down.
- Finish with Fresh Basil:
- Once the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves.
- Serve:
- Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, as a pizza topping, or with grilled meats. If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips:
- Customizing the Heat: If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder sauce, omit them altogether.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil or substitute with fresh parsley for a different flavor.
- Blending the Sauce: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use this sauce as a base for other dishes? A: Absolutely! This Cherry Tomato Sauce makes a great base for pasta bakes, lasagnas, or as a sauce for chicken and fish dishes.
Q: How can I store leftover sauce? A: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this sauce? A: Yes, you can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion:
This Cherry Tomato Sauce is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a sauce that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal, this sauce is sure to impress. Enjoy!
