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Tomato Sauce

Tomato Sauce

This homemade tomato sauce recipe is a quick, versatile, and flavorful addition to any kitchen. Made with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, onions, and herbs, it enhances dishes like pasta, pizza, soups, and more. With simple ingredients and easy preparation under 30 minutes, it delivers rich, vibrant taste free from preservatives and excess sugar. Customize it with spices or cream for your perfect sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 68 ripe fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or oregano, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

Optional Variations

  • Red pepper flakes or 1 chopped chili (for spicy kick)
  • Finely chopped carrots or bell peppers (for vegetable boost)
  • 12 tablespoons cream or coconut milk (for creamy tomato sauce)
  • Alternative fresh herbs: thyme, rosemary, or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop the fresh tomatoes. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic to release their flavors smoothly into the sauce.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking gently until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, to build the flavor base.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the fresh tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook gently for 20-25 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Blend for Smoothness: If desired, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce to a blender to puree to your preferred consistency for a silky texture.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the fresh chopped basil or oregano and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to preserve the herbal aroma and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Slow simmering enhances natural sweetness and thickens the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, acidity) after cooking.
  • Use good quality extra-virgin olive oil for richer flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta cooking water to loosen sauce when serving.
  • Peeling tomatoes is optional; blanch for a smoother sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently, stirring occasionally; add water or broth if too thick.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato sauce, homemade tomato sauce, easy tomato sauce recipe, fresh tomato sauce, pasta sauce, pizza sauce, vegan tomato sauce