When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, nothing beats a fresh and vibrant Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce. This sauce not only brings out the natural sweetness of the cherry tomatoes but also wraps your pasta in a delicious, flavorful embrace. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever your taste buds crave something comforting yet light. You’ll find that this sauce is packed with freshness and can be prepared in a flash, making it a staple in any home kitchen.
Why We Love This Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe
There’s something irresistible about a sauce made from fresh cherry tomatoes. Their burst of flavor and vibrant color can transform even the simplest of pasta dishes into a culinary delight. This Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce is flexible and easy to whip up, giving you that homemade touch with minimal effort. The marriage of juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs creates a sauce that dances on your palate. You’ll appreciate how the ingredients work together to make a dish that is not only delicious but also healthy. Add some Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for a creamy finish, and you have a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients about Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce
To create this delightful Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 14 ounces penne pasta
- 0.5 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
How to Make Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Directions
Creating your Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce is a process that you’ll find both simple and rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
- Begin by warming a saucepan over medium-low heat. This is where all the magic starts. Pour in your olive oil and let it heat up just enough to sizzle when you add the garlic.
- Combine the 2 cups of cherry tomatoes and sliced garlic in the saucepan. As they heat up, the flavor will develop beautifully. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the garlic just starts to toast, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Once the garlic has toasted to perfection, it’s time to add the chicken broth to the mix. Raise the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as the tomatoes start to burst and release their juices, which should take around 10 minutes.
- While the sauce simmers, you can prepare your pasta simultaneously. In a separate pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil and add in the 14 ounces of penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 11 minutes until it’s tender but still al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it but do not rinse. The starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling to it, creating a harmonious dish.
- Now, back to the sauce! Add the fresh oregano leaves and red pepper flakes into the tomato mixture. Use an immersion blender or a traditional blender to blend the sauce until it reaches a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can skip this step or blend just half of it.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the blended sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that all the pasta is well-coated with the vibrant tomato sauce.
- To finish, sprinkle in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last gentle mix and serve immediately for the best flavor. If you like, add extra cheese and fresh oregano on top for a lovely garnish.
How to Serve Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce
Serving your Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce can be as creative as you want it to be. Here are some ideas to enhance your dish further:
- Garnish: Sprinkle some extra grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top before serving. Fresh oregano leaves also make a lovely garnish, adding a pop of color and aromatic aroma.
- Pairing: This sauce pairs beautifully with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the acidity of the tomatoes nicely.
- Add Protein: If you desire some additional protein, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. These options not only satisfy but also enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Serve Family-Style: For a communal dining experience, consider serving the pasta in a large bowl at the center of the table. This approach invites everyone to dig in and makes for a cozy atmosphere.
- Bring the Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers to the dish before serving. Provide a side of freshly grated cheese for those who want an extra cheesy experience.
Expert Tips: Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, seasonal cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re not in season, consider using a quality can of crushed tomatoes as a substitute.
- Perfectly Toasted Garlic: Keep an eye on your garlic while it toasts; you want it golden, not brown, to avoid a bitter taste.
- Balance the Flavors: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, if necessary.
- Blend with Care: If you prefer your sauce to retain some texture, consider blending only half of it. This gives you the benefit of smoothness without losing the delightful bites of tomato.
- Cooking Pasta: Ensure that your pasta is just slightly undercooked. It will continue to cook a bit more once mixed with the hot sauce, achieving that perfect al dente texture.
How to Store Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce
If you find yourself with leftover Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce, you can store it with ease:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the sauce to cool down to room temperature before placing it into storage containers. This will prevent condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store the sauce in airtight containers to keep it fresh. You can also portion it into smaller containers for easy reheating later.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: If you plan to consume the sauce within a week, store it in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce can last in the freezer for up to three months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the stored sauce, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened in the fridge or freezer, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to get it back to your desired consistency.
Variation of Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce
While the classic Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce is delightful as-is, there are plenty of ways to mix it up:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. Sauté these along with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Alternatives: While fresh oregano is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil or thyme. Each herb brings its unique flavor that can make the dish feel new.
- Cheese Variations: Instead of Parmigiano-Reggiano, you could also use Pecorino Romano or even a vegan cheese alternative for different taste experiences.
- Creamy Twist: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some crème fraîche at the end before mixing in the pasta. This adds a rich texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Adding Protein: Consider adding cooked chickpeas or beans for a vegetarian protein option. These not only add sustenance but also enhance the dish’s texture.
FAQ
What is Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce?
Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful sauce made primarily from fresh cherry tomatoes and olive oil. It is often enhanced with garlic, herbs, and spices, serving as the perfect companion to pasta.
How long does Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce can last up to a week. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just reheat it and mix it with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Is Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce easy to make?
Yes, this sauce is simple to make and doesn’t require extensive cooking skills. With just a few fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious sauce in no time.
Can I customize the heat in Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce?
Certainly! You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, simply omit them altogether.
Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes Ripe and seasonal for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced To add flavor.
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth For moisture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves For herb freshness.
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust for desired heat.
For the Pasta
- 14 ounces penne pasta Cooked al dente.
For Serving
- 0.5 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese For a creamy finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by warming a saucepan over medium-low heat. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and sliced garlic to the saucepan and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the garlic starts to toast (about 2-3 minutes).
- Once the garlic is toasted, add the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes as the tomatoes burst.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta in a separate pot of lightly salted boiling water for about 8-11 minutes until tender but al dente.
- Drain the pasta but do not rinse.
- Add fresh oregano leaves and red pepper flakes into the sauce. Blend until smooth or leave chunkier if preferred.
- Toss the drained penne pasta with the blended sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well-coated.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
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