Description
This deeply flavorful and velvety tomato sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients but tastes like it simmered for hours!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28oz/800g) crushed tomatoes (or whole peeled tomatoes, blended)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes & seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Simmer for depth: Add broth or water and let simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in butter for extra richness and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Toss with pasta, spread on pizza, or use as a dipping sauce.
Notes
- Blend the sauce for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
- Add ½ teaspoon balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.