Classic Italian Tomato Sauce
User Reviews
5
Classic Italian Tomato Sauce
Description
The sauce starts by gently cooking onions and carrots until softened, which adds natural sweetness and depth. Minced garlic is added briefly to avoid burning and enhance aroma. Pureed whole peeled tomatoes and tomato paste provide a rich tomato base.
Herbs like basil and oregano, along with optional red pepper flakes, infuse the sauce with classic Italian flavors. A careful simmer allows the sauce to thicken and develop complexity, while salt, black pepper, and sugar balance the acidity and bring harmony to the dish.
This tomato sauce pairs well with fresh pasta, making it a simple, fundamental component in Italian cooking. Its texture is smooth yet hearty thanks to the carrot and tomato paste base. Letting it simmer longer deepens flavors further if time permits.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 large carrot (diced)
- 4 garlic minced, cloves
- (2) ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes (such as San Marzano)
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 2 to 3 Tablespoons basil chopped or 2 teaspoons dried basil, fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, if you like a little spice, dried
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add oil and then add onion and carrot. Saute for 8-10 minutes or until softened. Add in garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes longer. Remove from heat if not adding tomatoes right away to make sure garlic doesn't burn.
- Puree tomatoes in a blender. Add to the onion carrot mixture. Stir in tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Reduce heat to a medium-low and let simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. If time permits, let simmer on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve with fresh pasta.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 89 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 89kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 818mg | 34% |
| Potassium | 373mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 2527IU | 51% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 28mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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