This roasted cherry tomato sauce is a quick and yummy way to spice up your meals! With sweet, juicy tomatoes and a few herbs, it’s easy to whip up and full of flavor.
I love tossing this sauce over pasta or spooning it on grilled veggies. Plus, the smell of roasting tomatoes makes the whole kitchen feel warm and cozy. 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their sweetness intensifies when roasted. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work nicely too. In a pinch, you can use canned whole or diced tomatoes, but the flavor will differ.
Olive Oil: This is key for roasting. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you’re looking to use something different, avocado oil or even melted butter can be great alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is best! Roasting the cloves softens their taste and provides a sweet touch to the sauce.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a lovely fresh flavor. If it’s not available, try using fresh parsley or even a dash of dried basil, although the fresh option is ideal for this sauce.
How Can You Roast Tomatoes Perfectly?
Roasting tomatoes is simple but does require attention to detail for great results. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with good-quality cherry tomatoes. They should be plump and ripe.
- Toss them well with olive oil, salt, and seasonings to ensure they roast evenly.
- Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet. This prevents steaming, allowing them to caramelize.
- Keep an eye on them in the oven. You want them soft and bursting, but not burnt. About 20-25 minutes should do the trick.
- Let them cool slightly before blending. This makes for a smoother sauce without burning your hands!
Enjoy your cooking, and remember to have fun with this easy and tasty sauce! Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Easy Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious roasted cherry tomato sauce will take about 30-35 minutes in total. That includes just 10 minutes of prep time to gather and toss the ingredients, and then about 20-25 minutes for roasting in the oven. Super easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot oven will help caramelize the tomatoes, bringing out their natural sweetness.
2. Toss the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, smashed garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Give it a good toss with your hands or a spatula until everything is coated evenly.
3. Spread and Roast:
Now, spread the coated tomatoes and garlic in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure they are not too crowded—this helps them roast nicely. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, blistered, and starting to burst. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Cool and Blend:
Once roasted, take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the tomatoes cool slightly. Transfer the soft tomatoes and garlic to a blender or food processor. If you want, you can squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin; it will come out easily now that it’s roasted. Blend until smooth or until you reach your desired consistency—it’s totally up to you!
5. Final Touches:
Once blended, stir in the chopped fresh basil and sugar (if you’re using it) to balance the flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as necessary.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your freshly made roasted cherry tomato sauce immediately! It’s fantastic tossed with pasta, used as a spread on bread, or drizzled over grilled vegetables. If you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Serve warm, and add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you like!
And that’s it! Enjoy your flavorful roasted cherry tomato sauce!
FAQs About Easy Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce
Can I Use Other Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are best for their sweetness, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even larger tomatoes chopped into pieces. Just keep in mind that larger tomatoes may require a longer roasting time.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roast the tomatoes and garlic, then store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, let the sauce cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor. You can also mix in cooked pasta directly into the sauce for a one-pot meal. Just adjust seasoning as needed!
