Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce
Introduction
Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce is a delicious and flavorful sauce that is perfect for any pasta dish. With its rich, roasted flavors and bright notes from fresh basil, it transforms simple spaghetti or penne into something special. This sauce is not only simple to make but also brings the taste of summer tomatoes to your table any time of the year.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce means you can control the ingredients and the flavor. Fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil create a vibrant taste that jarred sauces can rarely match. Plus, roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, making this sauce irresistible. It’s also a great way to use up extra tomatoes if you have them.
How to Make Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce
Ingredients
- 3 lbs roma tomatoes (see notes for other varieties)
- 1/2 yellow onion (ends trimmed and quartered)
- 6 cloves garlic*
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cane sugar*
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
(*see notes for subs)
Directions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 350F and set a large baking sheet aside. Trim the top of each tomato where the stem was and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Combine: Place the tomatoes, onion, and garlic on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the oregano, salt, sugar, and black pepper over the vegetables. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Use your hands to mix everything well, making sure each piece is coated in oil. Rotate the tomatoes so they are cut side up and spread them evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the oven for 50 to 60 minutes. The tomatoes should have crispy edges, and the garlic should be nicely browned.
- Process: If you want a smoother sauce, peel the tomatoes (I skip this step). Carefully move the roasted vegetables into a blender for a smooth sauce or a food processor for a chunkier sauce. Blend for 45 to 60 seconds until you reach your desired consistency. Add the fresh chopped basil and pulse a few times to mix it in. The heat from the tomatoes will lightly cook the basil.
- Serve & Store: Serve the sauce warm over cooked pasta, or warm it up on the stove if needed. Store leftovers in jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 2 months. Just leave 1 inch of empty space in each jar at the top and freeze uncovered until solid, then seal.
How to Serve Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce
This Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce is best served over your favorite pasta, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or any shape you like. Top with some grated parmesan cheese and more fresh basil for extra flavor. You can also use it in lasagna, as a base for pizza, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
How to Store Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce
Store any leftover sauce in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the sauce completely before sealing the jars. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the sauce for up to 2 months. Remember to leave some space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion while freezing.
Tips to Make Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce
- Feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes while roasting.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, for varied tastes.
Variation
Try adding cooked ground meat, such as beef or turkey, to the sauce for a heartier meal. You can also throw in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini when roasting.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned tomatoes can work well in this recipe. Just skip the roasting step and blend them with the other ingredients right away.
2. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.
3. What can I serve with this sauce?
This sauce pairs nicely with any type of pasta, but you can also use it as a base for pizza or a sauce for baked dishes like casseroles or lasagna.
