Tomato And Basil Sauce
A vibrant, fresh tomato and basil sauce perfect for pasta lovers, combining ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and chop the tomatoes.
- Peel and chop the garlic, then sauté garlic in olive oil until golden.
- Add the chopped tomatoes quickly to avoid splattering.
- Mix the basil with the tomato mixture.
- Cook on low for thirty minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss with your favorite pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using San Marzano tomatoes if you can find them. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since it's more concentrated. To enhance the sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. This sauce can also be used as a base for dishes like Mostaccioli With Tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato and Basil Sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread. It also makes a great base for dishes like Chilled Pasta Salad or can be used to top grilled chicken or fish for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, pour the sauce into freezer-safe bags, removing excess air, and it will last up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Basil Sauce contains roughly 89 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 641mg per serving (28% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, using canned peeled whole tomatoes is a great alternative, especially for convenience. They are picked at peak ripeness and can produce a flavorful sauce. Just crush them by hand or with a fork before adding them to the pan.
How can I make this sauce richer in flavor?
To deepen the flavor, try adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the garlic, or incorporate a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Additionally, simmering the sauce longer can enhance its taste.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Tomato and Basil Sauce is entirely vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's perfect for anyone following vegan recipes, and it can be served over whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthy meal option.
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).