Description
This Classic Tomato Sauce recipe for pasta offers a fresh, homemade alternative to store-bought sauces. It features a simple combination of olive oil, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and herbs simmered to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and versatile sauce perfect for any pasta dish. With minimal prep and cook time, it's both economical and delicious.
Ingredients
Tomato Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
- 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes in puree
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt, more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Gather the ingredients: Prepare all your ingredients measured and ready to use to streamline the cooking process.
- Sauté the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until tender and translucent, about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, approximately 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and flavors meld.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed before serving. The sauce is now ready to be served with your favorite pasta.
Notes
- For a thinner sauce, omit the tomato paste.
- Reduce garlic and herbs for a milder flavor that highlights other ingredients.
- Substitute dried oregano and basil with half a tablespoon of Italian seasoning or use fresh herbs added in the final 10 minutes for an enhanced flavor.
- Add sautéed sweet peppers or frozen peas for added texture and flavor.
- Incorporate ground meat for a Tuscan-style meat sauce.
- To balance tomato acidity, add about 2 teaspoons of sugar or include chopped carrots.
- For a basic marinara, add more vegetables and water using one can of San Marzano crushed tomatoes.
- Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
