Papa Vitos Basic Red Sauce
A rich, savory red sauce with garlic and herbs, perfect for pasta lovers and versatile enough for various Italian dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Add salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, rosemary, fennel seed, and a splash of wine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve over pasta or your favorite dishes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using San Marzano tomatoes if available. You can substitute fresh garlic for the Great Garlic if preferred. If you want a touch of sweetness, add a pinch of sugar. Adjust the herbs based on your taste; fresh herbs can enhance the sauce further. This sauce is versatile and can be used in various Italian recipes, from lasagna to pizza.
Serving Suggestions
This red sauce pairs beautifully with Spaghetti Bravissimo for a classic meal. It can also be served over roasted vegetables or used as a base for a hearty soup. Consider serving with a side of Marinated Green Beans And Onions for a fresh contrast, or use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa Vitos Basic Red Sauce contains roughly 1268 calories, with 50g protein, 264g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (624% 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 462mg per serving (20% 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! You'll need about 12-14 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and crushed. Simmer longer to break them down into a sauce, adjusting seasonings to taste.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers while cooking. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This sauce freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely and store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).