This homemade tomato sauce brings the warmth of a classic Italian kitchen to your table. By combining fresh aromatics like onion, garlic, and bell pepper with high-quality canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste, you create a deeply flavorful base that is far superior to store-bought alternatives. The long, slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a thick, robust sauce with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. It is incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and offers endless possibilities for customization. Serve it over spaghetti, lasagna, or use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread. This recipe is vegan-friendly and can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner solution or a make-ahead meal for busy schedules.
Tomato Sauce
Description
This homemade tomato sauce brings the warmth of a classic Italian kitchen to your table. By combining fresh aromatics like onion, garlic, and bell pepper with high-quality canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste, you create a deeply flavorful base that is far superior to store-bought alternatives. The long, slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a thick, robust sauce with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. It is incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and offers endless possibilities for customization. Serve it over spaghetti, lasagna, or use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread. This recipe is vegan-friendly and can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner solution or a make-ahead meal for busy schedules.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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If using fresh tomatoes, coarsely chop them and add them to the pot.
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Cook the fresh tomatoes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to release their juices.
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Coarsely chop the canned tomatoes and add them to the pot along with the tomato sauce and tomato paste.
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Stir in the salt, dried oregano, and fresh basil.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
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Cover the pot and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or basil if desired before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 4.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.0g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 0.7g
- Protein 0.2g1%
* 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
Brand Recommendation: Contadina tomato sauce and paste are recommended for significantly better flavor. If unavailable, a small dash of Tabasco sauce can add a pleasant sparkle without making the sauce hot.
Ingredient Substitutions: Fresh tomatoes are optional but recommended if they are in season and ripe. If using canned tomatoes only, ensure they are well-drained if you prefer a thicker sauce.
Storage: This sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
