This roasted tomato sauce offers a deep, complex flavor profile that elevates simple Mexican dishes. By roasting the tomatoes beforehand, you unlock a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of caramelized onions and carrots. The addition of fresh basil and a hint of red pepper provides a balanced aromatic finish. This versatile sauce is excellent for drizzling over enchiladas, serving as a dip for fresh tortilla chips, or simmering as a base for soups. It’s a comforting, home-style condiment that brings warmth and richness to any meal, making it a staple for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Roasted Tomato Sauce
Description
This roasted tomato sauce offers a deep, complex flavor profile that elevates simple Mexican dishes. By roasting the tomatoes beforehand, you unlock a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of caramelized onions and carrots. The addition of fresh basil and a hint of red pepper provides a balanced aromatic finish. This versatile sauce is excellent for drizzling over enchiladas, serving as a dip for fresh tortilla chips, or simmering as a base for soups. It&# 226;ÂÂs a comforting, home-style condiment that brings warmth and richness to any meal, making it a staple for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and finely chopped carrot to the pan.
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Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly golden, about 8-10 minutes.
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While the vegetables cook, drain the roasted tomatoes well.
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Cut the drained tomatoes into quarters.
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Transfer the sautéed onion and carrot mixture to the bowl of a food processor or blender.
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Add the quartered tomatoes, fresh basil, sugar, salt, and ground red pepper to the processor.
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Secure the lid and blend until the sauce is completely smooth and uniform.
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Pour the sauce into a serving bowl or return it to the pot to warm through gently if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 102.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.3g7%
- Saturated Fat 0.6g3%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1241.8mg52%
- Total Carbohydrate 15.8g6%
- Dietary Fiber 3.7g15%
- Sugars 10.4g
- Protein 2.6g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Substitutions: If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, though the flavor will be less vibrant. For a different heat profile, substitute ground red pepper with a pinch of cayenne or chili powder.
Variations: For a richer texture, you can puree a small amount of cooked rice or bread into the sauce to thicken it naturally without using flour or cornstarch.
Serving: This sauce is versatile; serve it warm as a topping for enchiladas and tacos, or cold as a refreshing dip for tortilla chips and fresh vegetables.
