Basil-Tomato Sauce
A vibrant, fresh basil-tomato sauce with bright lemon flavor and aromatic herbs, perfect for pasta, grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce, ideal for quick and flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in the container of an electric blender; process until smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture into a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Cover the saucepan.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If fresh tomatoes are in season, substitute them for canned tomatoes. Additionally, experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist. This sauce can also be used as a base for other Mediterranean recipes or served over pasta for a delightful vegan meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Basil-Tomato Sauce over pasta, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Bean and Tomato Salad, or with Roasted Lemon-Thyme Potatoes for a complete meal. Garnish with extra fresh basil for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil-Tomato Sauce contains roughly 191 calories, with 25g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (235% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (165% of the Daily Value), and iron (140% of the Daily Value). At about 191 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you'll need about 2-3 pounds. Blanch them to remove the skins, then chop and proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh tomatoes can provide a brighter flavor, especially in the summer.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when blending the ingredients. Alternatively, you can sauté some minced garlic and chopped jalapeños in the saucepan before adding the blended mixture for a spicy kick.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Basil-Tomato Sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
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).