Joe Denardo Pasta Sauce
A savory tomato-based pasta sauce infused with garlic, anchovies, basil, and sweet peppers, offering a rich yet delicate flavor profile perfect for pasta lovers seeking depth and freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in butter and olive oil.
- Add garlic and anchovies; saute for 10 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, sweet pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 50 minutes until thin.
- Serve with pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers. If you want a vegetarian version, you can substitute anchovies with capers for that umami kick. Adjust the sweetness by varying the sugar amount based on the acidity of your tomatoes. Fresh basil works best, but dried can be used in a pinch. Browse more Italian recipes for more inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape. Serve it topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra basil. It also complements a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Easy Fettucine Alfredo or Vicki'S Pizza.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Consider freezing portions for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joe Denardo Pasta Sauce contains roughly 32 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen and improve after sitting. Just reheat it gently before serving, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
What type of tomatoes work best for the sauce?
Canned San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended for their sweetness and rich flavor. However, fresh ripe tomatoes can also be used; just be sure to peel and chop them finely. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using fresh tomatoes to ensure they break down properly.
Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini to enhance the nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the onions at the beginning to ensure they cook down nicely and meld with the sauce.
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).