Description
A vibrant and flavorful Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce bursting with the natural sweetness of slow-roasted cherry tomatoes and infused with fresh herbs and garlic. This simple, healthy sauce is perfect for pasta, grilled proteins, sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce. Its balanced richness and fresh aroma make it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe, firm cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 whole garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly to ensure they roast properly without steaming.
- Season the Tomatoes: Place the cherry tomatoes and whole garlic cloves in a baking dish. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper evenly, and toss gently to coat all ingredients well.
- Roast in the Oven: Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the tomatoes are soft, slightly caramelized, and bursting with flavor. Watch to prevent burning, allowing a little char for added complexity.
- Blend the Sauce: Let the roasted tomatoes cool slightly. Transfer to a blender or use an immersion blender and pulse until your desired texture is reached smooth or slightly chunky.
- Fresh Herb Finish: Stir in chopped fresh basil and, if desired, red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce is now ready to serve.
Notes
- Select the best, firm, ripe cherry tomatoes for optimal sweetness and roasting results.
- Do not overcrowd the tomatoes on the baking dish to avoid steaming instead of roasting.
- Roast garlic whole with tomatoes to mellow its sharpness and develop a nutty depth.
- Blend less for chunky texture or longer for a smoother sauce depending on preference.
- Adjust salt and herbs after blending to perfectly balance flavors.
- The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in suitable containers or ice cube trays for portion-controlled storage.
- Reheat gently on low heat or in short microwave bursts, adding a splash of olive oil to restore texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: roasted cherry tomato sauce, easy tomato sauce, fresh tomato sauce, healthy pasta sauce, versatile sauce