Basic Basil Tomato Sauce
A vibrant, flavorful basil tomato sauce perfect for pasta lovers, combining fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and a touch of spice for a classic Italian taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in hot oil over medium heat until tender.
- Add undrained tomatoes, sugar, crushed red pepper, water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for 45 minutes, stirring often until thick.
- Add fresh basil and cook for 1 more minute.
- Serve over pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter sauce, consider using a bit more sugar or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned tomatoes work well too; just ensure to adjust the water accordingly. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano or thyme for added flavor. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it after cooking. This sauce pairs beautifully with Cindy'S Spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this basil tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for homemade pizza. It also makes a great dipping sauce for breadsticks. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread. Explore more Italian recipes to complement your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Basil Tomato Sauce contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 dried herbs instead of fresh basil?
Yes, you can use dried basil, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Add them earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to develop fully.
What can I add to the sauce for extra protein?
Adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or even lentils can enhance the sauce's protein content. For a vegetarian option, consider adding chickpeas or white beans during the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also include sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick, adjusting to your preferred spice level.
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).