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Tomato Sauce

Tomato Sauce

A quick and versatile homemade Tomato Sauce that’s rich, fresh, and flavorful. Ready in 30 minutes with simple pantry staples, perfect for pastas, pizzas, stews, and more. Customizable with herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups ripe tomatoes (fresh, chopped or canned)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried or fresh herbs (basil, oregano, or thyme)
  • 1 pinch sugar (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and garlic. If using fresh tomatoes, rinse, core, and roughly chop them to make blending or simmering easier.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Add Tomatoes: Pour in canned tomatoes or fresh chopped tomatoes. For a smoother sauce, crush the tomatoes with a wooden spoon or briefly blend them once softened.
  4. Season Thoughtfully: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, dried herbs, and sugar. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  5. Simmer & Develop Flavor: Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors melded.
  6. Final Taste & Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. For a silkier texture, pulse in a blender again or strain before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality ripe tomatoes or good-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for best flavor.
  • Slow cooking onions and garlic enhances sweetness and removes raw taste.
  • Simmer the sauce uncovered to reduce excess water and concentrate flavors.
  • A small pinch of sugar balances tomato acidity perfectly.
  • Add fresh herbs near the end to preserve aroma and color.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heat and prevent burning.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato sauce, homemade sauce, quick tomato sauce, easy tomato sauce, pasta sauce, pizza sauce