Tomato sauce recipe

 Classic, versatile, and bursting with flavor, Tomato Sauce is a foundational recipe in countless cuisines, especially Italian cooking. Whether you’re preparing pasta, pizza, meatballs, or stews, a rich and well-balanced tomato sauce can elevate any dish. Made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs, and olive oil, this homemade sauce delivers freshness and depth that store-bought versions can’t match.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Open the cans of whole peeled tomatoes.
2. Using your clean hands (the most traditional and effective way!), crush the whole tomatoes directly into a large bowl or directly into the pot. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher, a food processor (pulse a few times for a chunky sauce, blend longer for smooth), or an immersion blender directly in the pot later. If you prefer a completely smooth sauce, blending after simmering is best.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the finely diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it brown.
3. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

1. Stir in the tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, letting it caramelize slightly on the bottom of the pot. This step deepens the tomato flavor significantly.
2. Pour in the crushed tomatoes (from Step 1) along with their juices.
3. Add the large fresh basil sprig (if using) - this infuses flavor and can be easily removed later. Add salt and black pepper. If using, add a little sugar here to balance acidity.
4. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

1. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover the pot partially (leaving a small gap for steam to escape) and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1-2 hours for a richer, more developed flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. As it simmers, the flavors will meld, and the sauce will thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a little water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
4. Towards the end of simmering (about 5-10 minutes before serving), remove and discard the large basil sprig.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves (if using). The fresh basil added at the end retains its vibrant flavor.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want more salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar if it's too acidic.
3. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, as a base for pizza, layered in lasagna, or as a sauce for chicken or meatballs.

Nutritional Value 

Benefits 

• ✅ Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
• ✅ Supports Immune Health: Garlic and onions in the sauce offer natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• ✅ Low in Calories: A healthy, flavorful addition to meals without adding excess fat or sugar (especially when made at home).
• ✅ Versatile Base: Can be used in pasta dishes, pizzas, casseroles, shakshuka, and soups.
• ✅ Customizable: Easily adapted with spices, fresh herbs, or even chili flakes for added heat.

A well-made Tomato Sauce is an essential kitchen staple that brings depth, flavor, and nutrition to your favorite meals. By preparing it at home, you control the ingredients, enhance the taste, and avoid hidden sugars and preservatives. Whether you’re simmering it slow for Sunday dinner or whipping up a quick midweek pasta, this sauce is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.