Easy Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
A comforting and flavorful spaghetti sauce made with fresh tomatoes, sautéed onions, and aromatic herbs, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes (canned or fresh) Fresh tomatoes can be substituted with a can of crushed tomatoes.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped Can be replaced with shallots for a milder flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Dried garlic can substitute fresh garlic; use about 1/8 teaspoon of granulated garlic per clove.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Enhances flavor.
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Fresh herbs can be used if available.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasonings after simmering.
- optional red pepper flakes For a spicy kick.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- If using fresh tomatoes, chop them roughly and add them to the skillet. For canned tomatoes, pour in the entire can with its juice. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Immerse yourself in the aroma as the sauce begins to take shape!
Cooking
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for a minimum of 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop.
- Once your sauce has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of red wine.
Serving
- Toss your sauce with your choice of cooked pasta, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
If your sauce turns out too thick, thin it out with a splash of vegetable broth or water. Cooking over medium heat allows flavors to develop without burning ingredients. Letting your sauce sit off the heat for a few hours or overnight can intensify the flavors.