Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe

When it comes to homemade tomato sauce, the options for pairing are endless. Think of classics like spaghetti or penne. The sauce melds beautifully with pasta. But why stop there? Try it on a crusty baguette as a savory bruschetta spread.

It makes an excellent base for lasagna or a topping for baked meats. You can even use it as a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into creating your very own rich and flavorful tomato sauce.

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Let me take you on a flavorful journey through the art of making homemade tomato sauce. This isn’t just any old recipe; it’s a canvas for creativity in your kitchen.

If you’ve ever taken a bite of a delicious pasta dish at your favorite Italian restaurant and wondered how they achieve that luscious sauce, you’re in the right place. Making your own sauce can elevate a simple meal into something extraordinary.

Why does homemade sauce stand out? It’s fresher, richer, and infinitely customizable.

You don’t just get flavors; you get a beautiful experience, one that brings love and warmth into your kitchen. So, grab a glass of wine, and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of crafting this culinary delight.

What is Homemade Tomato Sauce?

Homemade tomato sauce is a blend of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices. It’s a staple in many cuisines but holds a special place in Italian cooking.

Unlike store-bought versions filled with preservatives, making your own sauce allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. Your homemade version is fresh, vibrant, and usually faster than you think.

Why This Recipe Works?

Now, let’s explore why this homemade tomato sauce recipe is one that you’ll want to keep on hand.

1. Quality Control

By making sauce at home, every ingredient counts. You pick your tomatoes and herbs, ensuring they are ripe and full of flavor. This is crucial, as high-quality ingredients lead to a better end product.

2. Custom Flavor Profiles

This recipe is straightforward but highly adaptable. Want to make it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Prefer a sweeter touch? Just adjust the honey. The possibilities are endless, and you can craft it to suit your personal taste.

3. Freshness is Key

Homegrown tomatoes or high-quality canned alternatives make a world of difference. The freshness adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate in store-bought varieties. You’ll notice it right away, especially when you serve it up.

4. Nutritional Benefits

Homemade tomato sauce doesn’t just taste great; it’s nutritious. Tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and K, and when you make your own, you control the salt and sugar content. This means a healthier option to serve to your family.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Homemade Tomato Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your flavorful tomato sauce:

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1¼ teaspoons sea salt
2 medium yellow onions, peeled and halved
4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil
4 pounds Roma tomatoes (or two 28-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes)

How To Make This?

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

If you’re using fresh Roma tomatoes, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Plunge the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. After that, place them in an ice bath.

This process makes peeling them easy. For canned tomatoes, skip this and move on.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion halves, cooking until they turn translucent. Then, toss in the crushed garlic and stir for about a minute. The fragrance will hit your nose like magic.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now it’s time to add your prepared tomatoes. If you have fresh ones, chop them roughly. For canned, crush them with a fork or your hands.

Now, sprinkle in the salt, honey, red pepper flakes, and balsamic vinegar. Stir it well.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour. Stir occasionally. You want the flavors to marry together beautifully. As it cooks, you’ll notice the sauce thickening—this is what you want.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once simmered, remove from heat. Stir in freshly chopped basil for a pop of freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs make a noticeable difference.
Simmer Longer for Depth: A longer simmer builds flavor. Patience is key.
Blend if Desired: For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender after cooking.
Add Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Taste as You Go: Adjust sweetness, acidity, and salt to suit your preferences.

Nutrition Information

Homemade tomato sauce recipe nutrition facts

How to Store The Leftovers?

This sauce stores well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, freeze in portions. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Recommended Side Dishes for Homemade Tomato Sauce

If you’re thinking of what to serve alongside your homemade tomato sauce, consider these crowd-pleasers:

1. Garlic Bread

A warm, crusty loaf topped with garlic butter pairs perfectly with tomato sauce. The buttery goodness complements the sauce, making each bite a delight.

2. Fresh Salad

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the sauce. Adding ingredients like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes brings freshness.

3. Grilled Vegetables

Grilling zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplants adds a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the tomato sauce.

4. Cheese-Stuffed Shells

Stuffed pasta shells filled with ricotta and spinach make for a lovely dish when topped with this tomato sauce. It’s comfort food in its finest form.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you find you’re missing some items, here are alternatives you can use:

1. Fresh Tomatoes vs. Canned

If you can’t find ripe tomatoes, canned whole tomatoes are excellent as they’re usually picked at peak ripeness.

2. Olive Oil Substitutes

If olive oil is unavailable, use canola or vegetable oil as a substitute, but expect a different flavor.

3. Butter Replacement

For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or margarine instead of unsalted butter.

4. Fresh Basil Swap

Grab some dried basil if fresh herbs aren’t in stock. Use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe

Pamela Dunlap

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 2 15

Total Time 2 30

Course sauce

Cuisine Italian

Servings quart

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

Large pot

Ingredients

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1¼ teaspoons sea salt
2 medium yellow onions peeled and halved
4 cloves garlic peeled and crushed
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil
4 pounds Roma tomatoes or two 28-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes