Rich and Flavorful Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This rich and flavorful roasted cherry tomato sauce is a simple way to elevate your meals with the natural sweetness and depth of oven-roasted tomatoes. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a vibrant dip.

Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for serving or blending)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Spread the cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano if using.
- Step 3: Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered, caramelized, and juicy.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Then transfer the tomatoes and garlic to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree to your preferred consistency.
- Step 5: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning by adding chopped fresh basil, more salt, pepper, or a splash of balsamic vinegar if desired.
- Step 6: Serve immediately with your favorite dishes, or store for later use.
Tips & Variations
- For deeper flavor, roast the garlic whole without smashing and blend together with the tomatoes after roasting.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting for a subtle kick.
- Use this sauce as a base for pizza or toss it with cooked pasta for a quick meal.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added before roasting for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, but cherry or grape tomatoes caramelize better and have a sweeter flavor, making them ideal for roasting. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even roasting.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely. It freezes well and maintains its flavor. Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy use later.
Print
Rich and Flavorful Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Rich and Flavorful Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings out the natural sweetness and depth of cherry tomatoes through roasting. Enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and optional herbs, this sauce is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a flavorful dip. The roasting process caramelizes the tomatoes, adding complexity and richness to the sauce with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, chopped (for serving or blending)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting.
- Prepare Ingredients: Spread the cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning if using.
- Roast Tomatoes: Roast the tomatoes and garlic in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered, caramelized, and juicy, releasing their rich flavors.
- Blend the Sauce: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the tomatoes and garlic to cool for about 5 minutes. Transfer the roasted ingredients to a blender or use an immersion blender directly to puree the mixture to your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in fresh chopped basil if desired. Adjust salt, pepper, and add a splash of balsamic vinegar if you like a tangy depth to your sauce.
- Serve or Store: Use the sauce immediately tossed with your favorite pasta, as a condiment, or store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months for longer shelf life.
Notes
- Roasting intensifies the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes, making the sauce rich without added sugars.
- For a chunkier sauce, pulse the blender less; for a smoother consistency, blend longer.
- Add a splash of good-quality balsamic vinegar for acidity and complexity.
- This sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Use fresh basil if available for a bright, herbal flavor; dried herbs can also be added before roasting.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: roasted tomato sauce, cherry tomato sauce, easy tomato sauce, garlic tomato sauce, Italian sauce, vegan sauce, homemade tomato sauce, roasted vegetable sauce

