15 Minute Tomato Sauce
A quick and flavorful tomato sauce with garlic, basil, and seasonings, perfect for pasta or as a base for other dishes, suitable for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Using a garlic press, add all 8 cloves of garlic and cook until golden, about 3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh tomatoes when in season instead of canned. If you're short on time, pre-minced garlic can save you a step, but fresh garlic yields the best taste. Feel free to adjust the herbs; oregano or thyme can be excellent substitutes for dried basil. Adding a splash of red wine can also enhance the sauce's depth.
Serving Suggestions
This 15 Minute Tomato Sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, making it a quick weeknight dinner option. Serve it over spaghetti, or use it as a base for dishes like Eggplant Parmesan. For a complete meal, accompany it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, such as an *Orange And Onion Salad*, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to three months, allowing it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 15 Minute Tomato Sauce contains roughly 346 calories, with 5g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of tomatoes for this sauce?
Absolutely! While whole canned tomatoes are convenient, you can also use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes work well too; just peel and chop them before cooking. Adjust the quantity to maintain the same volume, and remember that fresh tomatoes may require a bit longer to break down.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Yes, this tomato sauce freezes well! Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove until hot.
Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Definitely! Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your sauce. Just cook them along with the garlic before adding the tomatoes. This makes for a heartier sauce that complements many dishes, especially in Mediterranean recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).