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
Scale
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
