This simple tomato sauce transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious condiment perfect for pasta, polenta, or grilled meats. By gently sweating thinly sliced white onions in unsalted butter, you build a sweet, aromatic foundation that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. The sauce simmers slowly until the plum tomatoes break down into a creamy, cohesive texture, releasing their natural sugars and deep red color. Fresh basil added at the end provides a bright, herbal finish that cuts through the richness of the butter. It is an elegant yet effortless dish that brings a touch of Italian-inspired comfort to your table, ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to elevate a simple meal with minimal effort.
Simple Tomato Sauce
Description
This simple tomato sauce transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious condiment perfect for pasta, polenta, or grilled meats. By gently sweating thinly sliced white onions in unsalted butter, you build a sweet, aromatic foundation that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. The sauce simmers slowly until the plum tomatoes break down into a creamy, cohesive texture, releasing their natural sugars and deep red color. Fresh basil added at the end provides a bright, herbal finish that cuts through the richness of the butter. It is an elegant yet effortless dish that brings a touch of Italian-inspired comfort to your table, ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to elevate a simple meal with minimal effort.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large frying pan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
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Add the thinly sliced white onion and the water to the pan.
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Cover the pan and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender and completely translucent, about 10 minutes.
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Add the sliced tomatoes to the pan.
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Partially cover the pan and cook over low heat until the tomatoes break down and achieve a creamy consistency, about 20 minutes.
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If the sauce begins to dry out too much before reaching the desired creamy state, add a few more tablespoons of water to the pan.
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Season with salt to taste and stir in the torn fresh basil leaves.
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Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for a few minutes to allow the basil to release its aroma before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 153.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.2g25%
- Saturated Fat 10.2g51%
- Cholesterol 43.0mg15%
- Sodium 1.4mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.3g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 1.1g
- Protein 0.5g1%
* 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
Adding water and covering the pan while cooking the onions helps keep them from burning and ensures they steam until soft.
Cooking time for the tomatoes may vary depending on their moisture content and ripeness. Adjust heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer without boiling vigorously.
For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for acidity.
This sauce is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
