Basic Tomato Sauce
A rich and versatile tomato sauce bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping. The blend of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and herbs creates a balanced, savory taste that complements a variety of dishes. Ideal for those seeking a homemade, hearty sauce with natural ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except tomato paste in a large pot.
- Simmer uncovered for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Just before finishing, add tomato paste to thicken the sauce.
- Pour hot into jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the pot. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, adjust the sugar based on your taste. If you run out of fresh basil, dried basil can be used as a substitute, but use half the amount. This sauce also works well for various Italian recipes, such as Basic Tomato Meat Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This basic tomato sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with pasta, meatballs, or as a base for dishes like Tofu Spinach Lasagna. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also use it as a topping for pizzas or in casseroles.
Storage & Reheating
Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to six months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Tomato Sauce contains roughly 1419 calories, with 47g protein, 366g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (771% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 701mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh ones. Use about 12-14 cups of canned tomatoes. Just be aware that the flavor might differ slightly, and you may need to adjust seasoning.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while simmering. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference.
Is it possible to can this tomato sauce?
Yes, this sauce can be canned. Ensure that you follow proper canning procedures for safety, including the use of a pressure canner if needed, and always check the acidity levels.
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).