Description
This classic Italian tomato sauce is a versatile and flavorful base perfect for pasta, pizza, lasagna, or meatballs. Made with simple ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with optional additions like tomato paste, sugar, and red pepper flakes. This vegan and gluten-free sauce delivers rich depth and freshness, ideal for a wide variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes (crushed by hand)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the base ingredients: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add tomato paste (if using): Stir the tomato paste into the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to bring out a richer flavor and deepen the sauce’s color.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the optional sugar, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes to create a balanced and flavorful base.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help thicken the sauce. The sauce will develop a deeper flavor and smooth texture during this time.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. Use immediately over your favorite dish or let it cool. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- To achieve a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce to a blender after simmering.
- This sauce pairs well with pasta, pizza, lasagna, and meatballs.
- For added depth of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar during the simmering step.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
