Craving that vibrant, fresh taste of Carrabba's Italian Grill's famous Pomodoro sauce? You don't need a reservation or a long drive; you can recreate this deliciousness right in your own kitchen! This easy recipe delivers the same bright, slightly sweet, and intensely flavorful sauce you love, without any complicated techniques. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients: A Simple Symphony of Flavors
This recipe focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve that authentic Carrabba's taste. You'll be surprised how simple it is to create such a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Journey to Pomodoro Perfection
Follow these easy steps and you'll be enjoying your homemade Carrabba's-inspired Pomodoro sauce in no time. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
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Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burning the garlic will make the sauce bitter.
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Combine the Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Stir in Fresh Basil: Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil. This preserves its vibrant green color and fresh flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or sugar depending on your preference.
Tips and Tricks for Pomodoro Success
- Use good quality canned tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce heavily depends on the quality of your ingredients. Look for brands with minimal added ingredients.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer time develops a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking: Feel free to experiment with the amount of herbs, spices, and sugar to create your perfect Pomodoro sauce.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations: Explore the World of Pomodoro
- Spicy Pomodoro: Add a pinch more red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Pomodoro: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Pomodoro: This recipe is already vegetarian! You could add sauteed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra depth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 7g
- Protein: 3g
This easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Carrabba's-inspired Pomodoro sauce! Use it on pasta, pizza, chicken, or anything you like! It's a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal.