Homemade Tomato Sauce
A versatile and flavorful homemade tomato sauce featuring ripe Italian tomatoes, basil, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for many dishes, this sauce offers a rich, fresh taste that complements a variety of cuisines and is easy to prepare from scratch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft in a large saucepan.
- Stir in Italian tomatoes, tomato paste, crumbled basil, salt, a dash of sugar, and water.
- Heat the mixture until bubbling, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 45 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions and garlic. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering. Fresh basil can be substituted for dried; just use about three times the amount. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This sauce is versatile and can be used in various Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade tomato sauce pairs beautifully with various dishes. Serve it over pasta, use it as a base for pizza, or combine it with grilled vegetables for a delicious side. It complements dishes like Italian Sausage Peppers or Barb'S Pasta Salad. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of water if the sauce is too thick, and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Tomato Sauce contains roughly 64 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1443mg per serving (63% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes will work well. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the sauce. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down and thicken.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers while sautéing the onions and garlic. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference. This will complement the flavors well without overpowering the sauce.
What should I serve with this tomato sauce?
This sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. Consider pairing it with pasta, as it clings beautifully to noodles. It also works well with roasted vegetables or as a topping for baked dishes like lasagna. For a refreshing side, serve it with a Green Bean Side Dish.
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).