Judith'S Homemade Tomato Sauce
Judith's homemade tomato sauce features rich tomato flavor with garlic and herbs, perfect for pasta or pizza, appealing to those craving savory, hearty dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, put a little olive oil and 1 garlic clove; cook until the garlic is golden brown.
- Set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh garlic can be substituted for the clove if you prefer a milder taste. If you're short on time, using canned diced tomatoes can work as well. To elevate this sauce further, try incorporating some sautéed onions or bell peppers, which are common in many Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade tomato sauce pairs beautifully with pasta for a classic Italian meal. Serve it over spaghetti or use it as a base for Jean's Pizza. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. It also complements a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, creating a complete and satisfying dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions, allowing you to defrost only what you need. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Judith'S Homemade Tomato Sauce contains roughly 41 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 521mg per serving (23% 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! Approximately 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes will yield a similar amount to one large can of peeled tomatoes. Just blanch and peel them before cooking. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to develop the desired sauce consistency.
What can I add to make this sauce spicier?
To spice up your sauce, consider adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking the garlic. You can also stir in some hot Italian sausage for a meaty kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference to create a flavor profile that suits your taste.
How can I thicken the sauce if it's too watery?
If your sauce ends up too watery, simmer it uncovered on low heat to allow excess liquid to evaporate. You can also add a little tomato paste to thicken it. For a unique twist, blending in cooked lentils can create a thicker texture while adding nutritional value.
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).