Unleash the power of simplicity with this homemade tomato sauce recipe that turns diced tomatoes into a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, and more. It’s easy, delicious, and way better than anything from a jar.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a sauce that’s both easy and affordable.
- Rich Flavor: Slow cooking enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Versatile: Perfect base for countless dishes, from pasta to meatballs.
- Healthy: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, with no preservatives.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavor foundation for your sauce.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
After 30 minutes, add the salt, black pepper, and sugar if using. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Basil
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil. The residual heat will wilt the basil slightly, releasing its aromatic oils into the sauce, adding a fresh, herby note.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Your tomato sauce is now ready to be used immediately or stored. For storage, let it cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for longer storage.
Tips and Tricks
For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the cooked sauce to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, simply leave it as is. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic can introduce a subtle heat. For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the diced tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the saucepan. This caramelizes the sugars in the tomatoes, adding a rich, smoky dimension to the sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a kick.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer sauce.
- Herbed Tomato Sauce: Mix in other herbs like oregano or thyme along with the basil for more complexity.
- Meaty Tomato Sauce: Brown some ground beef or sausage in the pan before adding the onions for a hearty meat sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! You’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Blanch them to remove the skins, then dice and proceed with the recipe. The flavor will be slightly brighter and fresher.
How can I make this sauce thicker? If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, a small amount of tomato paste can be stirred in to thicken it quickly.
Is this sauce freezer-friendly? Yes, this tomato sauce freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Summary
This homemade tomato sauce with diced tomatoes is a versatile, flavorful foundation for countless dishes. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought sauces.