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tomato sauce

tomato sauce

Tomato sauce: the pure taste of homemade comfort, ready in minutes. Fresh, quick and healthy for your favorite dishes.
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Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 85
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 unit ripe tomatoes medium, chopped
  • 1 unit onion small, finely chopped
  • 2 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
  • 6 leaf fresh basil torn by hand

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 more minute, be careful not to burn.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Mix well to combine with the onion and garlic.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir to blend the flavors.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
  7. Turn off the heat and stir in the torn fresh basil leaves. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Use your tomato sauce immediately or let it cool and store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Notes

Homemade tomato sauce is a kitchen classic, beloved for its incredible versatility and rich, comforting flavor. Whether you’re prepping a quick weeknight pasta, a fresh pizza base, or looking to add depth to stews and casseroles, this simple sauce elevates almost any dish.
Making your own tomato sauce is not only rewarding, but it also allows you to tailor the flavor profile perfectly to your taste. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes—the better the tomatoes, the richer and sweeter your sauce will be. For a deeper umami note, sauté a little finely diced carrot or celery with your onion and garlic. If tomatoes are out of season or you need a shortcut, good quality canned tomatoes work beautifully—just be sure to drain excess liquid if you prefer a thicker sauce.

Smart Tips for Flawless Tomato Sauce

  • To avoid bitterness sometimes found in tomato skins and seeds, you can peel and seed the tomatoes before chopping, or simply pass the cooked sauce through a food mill for a smoother, silkier consistency.
  • Balance acidity by adding a pinch of sugar if needed, depending on your tomato's sweetness.
  • Don’t rush the simmer: Cooking gently over low heat allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken naturally. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Add herbs at the end for maximum aroma—fresh basil works best if stirred in just before serving.

Serving and Variations

While classic as a pasta companion, this tomato sauce can also be spooned over grilled chicken or fish, spread on toasted bruschetta, or used as a sauce for homemade meatballs. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes as the sauce cooks. Enhance Mediterranean notes by including a handful of chopped olives or capers.
When serving, always finish with a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This not only boosts flavor but also provides that irresistible finishing touch. And remember: this sauce gets even better after a day in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or freezing for later use.