Tired of the same old pasta sauce? Craving a vibrant, fresh taste that screams summer? Then look no further! This easy grape tomato sauce recipe is your answer. Bursting with sweet and tangy flavor, it’s the perfect homemade cooking solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated weekend meal. This healthy meal is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. Get ready to elevate your pasta nights with this delicious dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Sauce
Getting Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Don't rush this step; allowing the onions to slowly soften develops their sweetness.
Building the Flavor:
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
The Tomato Magic:
- Pour in the halved grape tomatoes. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir well to combine.
Simmering to Perfection:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and broken down, creating a lovely sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor will become.
Finishing Touches:
- Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal
This versatile grape tomato sauce is perfect tossed with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine. You can also serve it over grilled chicken, fish, or even polenta for a unique twist. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty and creamy contrast.
Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
- For a smoother sauce: Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency after simmering.
- Add some sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Boost the flavor: Incorporate a pinch of sugar, a splash of white wine, or a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy grape tomato sauce recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative to jarred sauces. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy the burst of fresh, summery flavors!