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Classic Tomato Sauce for Pasta
Experience the rich and delightful flavors of this homemade tomato sauce, a staple in Italian cuisine that transforms simple pasta dishes into culinary masterpieces. Made with ripe, juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a blend of fresh and dried herbs, this sauce is a celebration of fresh ingredients. Whether served over spaghetti or your favorite shape, it's sure to become a family favorite. This sauce has roots in traditional Italian cooking, where it has been perfected over generations, often passed down through family recipes.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Onion
- 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic
- 4 cloves, minced
- Fresh tomatoes
- 6 cups, diced (about 8-10 medium tomatoes)
- Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons
- Dried basil
- 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Sugar
- 1 teaspoon (to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup, chopped
- Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup, grated (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the diced fresh tomatoes and tomato paste to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
- Season the mixture with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Mix well.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- After 20 minutes, remove the lid and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves just before serving for a burst of flavor.
- Serve the tomato sauce over your favorite cooked pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after cooking to puree to your desired consistency.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
Dietary Information
Servings: 6 Dish Type: Sauce Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Calories: 120 Fat: 5g Carbs: 18g Protein: 3g Sodium: 300mg Sugar: 4g
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