Step 1

If making this with pasta: bring a pot of water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. This sauce is enough for 2 large or 3 smaller servings of pasta.

Step 2

Prep ingredients: wash and dry cherry tomatoes, removing any stems but leaving the skin on. Peel and mince garlic cloves. Chop basil. Set all ingredients aside.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in minced garlic. Stir and cook for a couple minutes, until garlic is fragrant.

Step 4

Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Generously season the tomatoes with black pepper and salt (I love using these sea salt flakes). Allow the tomatoes to cook, stirring regularly.

Step 5

Once the tomatoes start to soften (about 5 minutes in), press down on them using your spatula or a potato masher. This will release their juices to create that "creamy" sauce.

Step 6

Continue to cook the sauce, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly. After an additional 15 or so minutes, turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped basil. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7

Toss sauce with pasta or see notes for more serving ideas!