Easy and Rich Tomato Pasta Sauce
A simple yet delicious tomato pasta sauce that transforms fresh ingredients into a comforting Italian favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes (or two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes) Canned for convenience
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Can be substituted with butter for richer flavor
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped Shallots can be used for a milder sweetness
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Sauté until fragrant, but avoid burning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Fresh oregano can be used if available
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn Add just before serving
- to taste Salt and freshly cracked black pepper Season throughout cooking
Optional Enhancements
- 1/4 cup red wine For added depth of flavor
- 1 pinch sugar To tone down acidity if needed
- to taste Red pepper flakes If you like it spicy
Instructions
Preparation
- Score the bottom of fresh tomatoes with an ‘X’ and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds to make peeling easy. Chop the tomatoes, discarding the core.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be cautious not to let the garlic burn!
- Pour in the prepared tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir in any optional red wine or sugar if desired. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken beautifully.
- Just before serving, stir in the torn basil leaves, allowing them to wilt and release their aroma.
- Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. A sprinkle of sugar can balance acidity; consider a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for richness.
Notes
This sauce can be customized with additional ingredients; for example, kids can add a dollop of ricotta while adults might prefer a sprinkle of parmesan.