Sweet grape and cherry tomatoes are available year-round, so you don’t have to wait for summer to enjoy this sauce. Spread it on crostini or toss it with pasta.

Tiny-Tomato Sauce is a delightful and versatile sauce made from small grape or cherry tomatoes. This sauce showcases the vibrant flavors of these tiny tomatoes, creating a burst of sweetness and acidity. The small size of the tomatoes allows them to cook quickly, resulting in a fresh and light sauce that can be prepared in no time.

With just a handful of ingredients, including garlic, olive oil, crushed red pepper, and fresh basil, Tiny-Tomato Sauce is simple yet flavorful. The garlic and red pepper add a subtle kick of heat, while the basil infuses a fragrant herbal note. The sauce is cooked until the tomatoes are softened and the flavors have melded together, creating a luscious texture and depth of taste.

Tiny-Tomato Sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes. It pairs perfectly with pasta, whether it’s tossed with spaghetti, penne, or gnocchi. The sauce can also be used as a base for homemade pizzas, as a topping for bruschetta, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Its bright and refreshing flavors make it an excellent accompaniment to grilled seafood or chicken.

The beauty of Tiny-Tomato Sauce lies in its simplicity and the ability to let the natural flavors of the tomatoes shine. It’s a perfect way to make the most of an abundance of grape or cherry tomatoes and adds a burst of freshness to any dish it accompanies.

Makes 3 cups

INGREDIENTS

• 2 garlic cloves, flattened with the side of a knife
• Pinch of crushed red pepper
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 pints grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt
• 4 fresh basil leaves, torn into bits

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large saucepan, cook the garlic with the red pepper in the oil over medium heat until golden on all sides, about 4 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes and salt to taste and cook, stirring occasionally and crushing the tomatoes with a spoon, until the tomatoes are softened and the sauce is thickened, 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Just before serving, discard the garlic and stir in the basil.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

1. Pasta: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta shape, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or farfalle. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a simple and satisfying meal.
2. Bruschetta: Spoon the sauce over toasted baguette slices and drizzle with a little olive oil. Top with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese and a sprinkle of balsamic glaze for a delicious appetizer or snack.
3. Pizza: Use the sauce as a base for homemade pizza. Spread it over the pizza dough and top with your preferred toppings, such as mozzarella, fresh basil, olives, or roasted vegetables. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted for a flavorful pizza.
4. Dipping Sauce: Serve the sauce as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, garlic knots, or focaccia. Its tangy and sweet flavors make it a delightful accompaniment to bread-based snacks.
5. Grilled Seafood or Chicken: Brush the sauce onto grilled seafood, such as shrimp or scallops, or marinate chicken with the sauce before grilling. The bright flavors of the sauce complement the grilled flavors beautifully.
6. Crostini Toppings: Spread the sauce on crostini and top with various ingredients like prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, or grilled vegetables. It creates a refreshing and flavorful appetizer for parties or gatherings.
7. Grain Bowls: Use the sauce as a dressing for grain bowls. Combine cooked grains like quinoa or couscous with roasted vegetables, protein of choice, and a dollop of Tiny-Tomato Sauce for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Feel free to get creative and explore other ways to incorporate Tiny-Tomato Sauce into your dishes. Its vibrant flavors and versatility make it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!