5-Ingredient Burst Tomato Spread
Total Time
20 mins
Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
18 mins
Rating
5 out of 5 stars
(8)
Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 dry pints (4 cups) cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes
- 1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- (optional) 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or your desired sweetener)
- fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste
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Preparation
Step 1
Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and sauté for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
Step 2
Add in the tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic. Cover the pan and continue to cook, stopping to stir the mixture occasionally, until all of the tomatoes have burst and released their juices to form a sauce, about 6-8 minutes. Continue to simmer the mixture uncovered for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. (Note that the spread will thicken a bit as it cools.)
Step 3
Reduce heat to low. Add in the balsamic, plus any sweetener and/or herbs (if using), and stir until combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper, as needed.
Step 4
Serve warm with your favorite crusty bread.
Step 5
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Chef's notes
Feel free to add fresh Italian herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary. Alternatively, use Italian seasoning if fresh herbs aren't available.
To balance the acidity, add sugar or your desired sweetener if the tomatoes aren't sweet enough.
For a buttery effect, stir a tablespoon of cold butter into the hot dip just before serving.
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Try red wine vinegar as a substitute for balsamic vinegar.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, or freshly-grated black pepper before serving.
