Tomato Basil Sauce
A fresh and vibrant tomato basil sauce with lemon and garlic, perfect for pairing with rice, crusty rolls, or green beans, highlighting bright flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chopped tomatoes and half of the basil.
- Let stand at room temperature for 1 to 4 hours.
- Before serving, add the remaining basil.
- Serve with or over rice.
- Crusty rolls are good to dip in the juice, and green beans complement it.
Tips & Substitutions
Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor; heirloom varieties work wonderfully. If fresh basil is unavailable, consider using dried basil, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For added depth, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat. This sauce is versatile and can also be drizzled over grilled vegetables or served alongside a refreshing Yogurt Vinaigrette.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Basil Sauce is delightful served over rice or pasta for a light meal. Crusty rolls are perfect for dipping into the sauce, making it a fantastic appetizer. For a balanced plate, consider pairing it with sautéed green beans or a fresh salad. It also complements Mediterranean recipes beautifully, enhancing dishes like Greek Recipe Dolmades.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the sauce to lose its fresh taste. If the sauce thickens, a splash of olive oil or water can help restore its original consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Basil Sauce contains roughly 611 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 566mg per serving (25% 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?
Yes, this sauce can be made a few hours in advance. Allowing it to sit at room temperature enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together. However, it's best to add the fresh basil right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and aroma.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
Using ripe, juicy tomatoes like Roma or heirloom varieties provides the best flavor and texture. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, consider using canned San Marzano tomatoes as a substitute, which can offer a similar taste and richness.
Can I freeze the sauce for later use?
Yes, you can freeze this Tomato Basil Sauce. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently when ready to use.
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).