Are you tired of jarred tomato sauces that lack depth and vibrant flavor? Do you crave a homemade sauce bursting with the sun-ripened taste of fresh tomatoes? Then look no further! This baked tomato sauce recipe is your ticket to unbelievably delicious, healthy meals. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for beginner cooks, and transforms simple pasta dishes into culinary masterpieces. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals, perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas and easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped (Roma or heirloom varieties work best)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large, oven-safe baking dish (a 9x13 inch dish works well).
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Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 45-60 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir halfway through baking for even cooking. The longer it bakes, the richer the flavor will become.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, carefully transfer the baked mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the baking dish) and blend until smooth. If blending in batches, be careful to vent the blender to prevent pressure buildup.
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Serve & Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve your homemade baked tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, alongside grilled chicken or fish, or as a pizza topping.
Tips for the Best Baked Tomato Sauce:
- Use ripe tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will significantly impact the flavor of your sauce. Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to customize your sauce to your liking. Thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of sugar can enhance the flavor profile.
- Adjust cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of tomatoes you use. Keep an eye on the sauce and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh chili for a spicier kick.
- Hearty Tomato Sauce: Add a cup of chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
This baked tomato sauce recipe is a testament to the magic of simple homemade cooking. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used in countless dishes, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. This recipe exemplifies easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas all in one, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend cooking session. Enjoy!