Description
A rich and velvety tomato sauce made from authentic San Marzano tomatoes, simmered with olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil. This simple and flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, pizza, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
2 lbs San Marzano tomatoes (fresh or canned)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Handful of fresh basil leaves
1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
- If using fresh tomatoes, score a small “X” on the bottom of each and blanch in boiling water for 30–60 seconds. Transfer to an ice bath, peel, and roughly chop.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion (if using), and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Stir in tomatoes and break them down using a wooden spoon or potato masher. Let simmer on low heat.
- Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if needed). Simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Add fresh basil and dried oregano in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added flavor.
- Blend with an immersion blender or let cool slightly before blending to your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving or storing.
Notes
Use canned San Marzano tomatoes when fresh ones are out of season.
Red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
A splash of red wine deepens the flavor profile.
Simmer longer for a thicker, more concentrated sauce.
Great for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg