Using Cherry Tomatoes For Spaghetti Sauce
One of the most popular pasta dishes in the world is spaghetti with tomato sauce. This simple and delicious combination is a staple in many households and restaurants. While traditional tomato sauce is made with large tomatoes, cherry tomatoes can also be used to make a flavorful and unique spaghetti sauce.
Benefits of Using Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a great choice for spaghetti sauce for several reasons. First, they have a higher sugar content than larger tomatoes, which means they caramelize more easily and create a sweeter and richer sauce. Second, they have a thinner skin and less water content than larger tomatoes, which means they cook faster and require less time to reduce into a sauce. Finally, cherry tomatoes are easier to find and less expensive than heirloom or roma tomatoes, making them a budget-friendly option.
Ingredients
To make cherry tomato spaghetti sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 pound of spaghetti
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a large baking dish.
- Add the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the dish and toss to coat the tomatoes.
- Bake the tomatoes for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized.
- While the tomatoes are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- Once the tomatoes are done, remove them from the oven and mash them with a fork or potato masher to create a chunky sauce.
- Drain the spaghetti and add it to the baking dish with the tomato sauce.
- Use tongs to toss the spaghetti with the sauce until it is fully coated.
- Top the spaghetti with chopped fresh basil and serve hot.
Variations
There are many ways to customize cherry tomato spaghetti sauce to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Add cooked Italian sausage or meatballs to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Use different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add diced onions or red bell peppers to the baking dish with the tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a mix of cherry tomatoes and larger tomatoes for a more complex sauce.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes to the finished dish for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Cherry tomatoes are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used to make a flavorful and unique spaghetti sauce. By following the simple recipe above, you can create a sweet and savory sauce that is perfect for any pasta dish. Try experimenting with different variations to find your favorite combination of flavors.
