Are you dreaming of vibrant, summery flavors that can easily be transformed into a quick and healthy weeknight meal? Look no further! This cherry tomato sauce recipe is your ticket to delicious homemade cooking, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Forget jarred sauces – this easy recipe delivers a fresh, intensely flavorful sauce that elevates pasta, pizza, or even grilled chicken to a whole new level. Let's dive in!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Guide to Deliciousness
Follow these easy steps to create a delightful cherry tomato sauce:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your sauce.
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Add the tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the saucepan. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and broken down, creating a rich sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Enhance the flavor: If desired, stir in the balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a delightful tanginess that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This delicious sauce is perfect over pasta, spooned onto grilled chicken or fish, or used as a pizza topping.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Cherry Tomato Sauce
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of tomatoes, work in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the tomatoes from steaming instead of simmering.
- Roast the tomatoes (optional): For an even deeper, richer flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the saucepan. This intensifies their sweetness.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency after cooking.
Variations: Explore Different Flavor Profiles
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize your cherry tomato sauce:
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Herby Tomato Sauce: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This healthy meal provides a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. Nutritional values will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
This simple yet flavorful cherry tomato sauce recipe is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. It's a testament to how quick and easy homemade cooking can be, providing a healthy and satisfying meal without sacrificing taste. Enjoy!