Traditional Sauce
A rich, savory tomato sauce packed with garlic, herbs, and seasonings, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a versatile condiment for various Italian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients in a pot.
- Simmer until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the sliced onion and garlic in olive oil before adding them to the pot. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Italian Hot Sauce. You can substitute fresh herbs for dried ones if available; just use three times the amount. This sauce is versatile and can be used for Cacciatore Sauce or as a base for other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This traditional sauce is perfect for pasta, making it a great companion for dishes like Italian Pasta Sauce. Serve it over spaghetti or penne, and top with grated Parmesan cheese. It also pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, try it with Italian-Style Swiss Steak.
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 on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Traditional Sauce contains roughly 110 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1792mg per serving (78% 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 tomato paste?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the pot. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require longer cooking time to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian or vegan?
This sauce is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure that you use a vegan-friendly tomato paste and check any additional ingredients you might want to add. It's a great base for Vegan recipes when combined with vegetables or legumes.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, simply add more water or vegetable broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as additional liquid may dilute the flavors.
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).