Tom'S Own Spaghetti Sauce
A rich, flavorful spaghetti sauce with fresh garlic, onion, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings that love classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic and onion in olive oil.
- Mix tomato paste and water or red wine.
- Add the tomato mixture to the sautéed garlic and onion.
- Add remaining ingredients: tomatoes, tomato paste, water or wine, basil, pepper, sugar, and salt.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If fresh basil is available, use it instead of dried for a vibrant taste. You can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup if you prefer a natural sweetener. For a heartier sauce, throw in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, and it pairs beautifully with Zesty Green Beans And Cherry Tomatoes for a colorful plate. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Italian Beef Sandwiches(A Great Crock Pot Recipe) for a satisfying family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. This sauce also freezes well; just cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tom'S Own Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 261 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (193% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% 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 ahead of time and actually tastes better after it sits for a day, allowing the flavors to meld. Simply prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to serve.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Using crushed or whole canned tomatoes works best for this recipe. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice if you want a sweeter, richer flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes in season, you can substitute them, but be sure to peel and chop them before adding.
Can I make this sauce vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian, and you can easily make it vegan by using water instead of red wine and ensuring that the tomato paste is free from any animal products. It's a delicious and versatile sauce suitable for various dietary preferences.
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).