This recipe uses ripe tomatoes to make a tasty sauce at home. It takes about 30 minutes. You get fresh flavor without cans. Great for pasta or dips.
Why Use Fresh Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes add real taste. They come from gardens or markets. This sauce skips long cooks. It fits busy days. Use it right away or save for later.
Ingredients
You need few items. Here is the list:
- 4 pounds ripe tomatoes, like Roma.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 small onion, chopped.
- 1 bunch fresh basil, about 1 cup leaves.
- 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- 1 tablespoon sugar, if tomatoes lack sweetness.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps. It makes 4 cups sauce.
Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash tomatoes. Cut out stems. Chop into chunks. Pulse in a food processor until chunky. No need to peel for quick prep.
Cook the Base
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic. Stir for 1 minute.
Simmer the Sauce
Add tomato chunks with juices. Stir in salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a boil. Then lower heat. Simmer for 20 minutes. Stir now and then.
Add Herbs
Tear basil leaves. Add most to the pan. Save some for garnish. Simmer 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust salt or sugar.
Finish Up
Remove from heat. Use a blender for smooth texture if you want. Or keep it chunky.
Tips for Success
Choose ripe tomatoes for best flavor. If sour, add more sugar. Use a wide pan to thicken fast. Stir to avoid sticking. This works with any red tomato type.
Storage Methods
Cool the sauce. Store in fridge for 5 days. Freeze in bags for 3 months. Thaw in fridge before use.
Ways to Use This Sauce
Spread on pizza. Mix with pasta. Dip bread in it. Add to soups. Pairs well with vegetables.
| Use | Example Dish | Time to Prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | Spaghetti marinara | 10 minutes |
| Pizza | Cheese pizza base | 5 minutes |
| Dip | With breadsticks | 2 minutes |
| Soup | Tomato soup add-in | 15 minutes |
Variations
Make it vegan by skipping cheese toppings. Add wine for depth: stir in 1/4 cup red wine before simmer. Roast tomatoes first for smoky taste. Use herbs like oregano or thyme.
Final Thoughts
Home sauce brings fresh taste to meals. Try it with your tomatoes. It saves money and adds joy to cooking.