Tired of jarred pasta sauces? Craving a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor in your next pasta dish? Then look no further! This oven-roasted tomato pasta sauce recipe is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, delivering a depth of flavor you just can't achieve with store-bought options. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet impressive homemade sauce, a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic with olive oil, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet. Make sure the tomatoes and vegetables are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
Step 2: Roasting for Flavor
Roast the tomatoes and vegetables for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve collapsed a bit and are beautifully browned in places. This roasting process is key; it concentrates the flavors and creates a rich, sweet sauce.
Step 3: Blending the Sauce
Once the tomatoes are roasted, let them cool slightly. Then, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency to your preference. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, blend for a shorter time.
Step 4: Simmering and Serving
For an even richer flavor, pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes over low heat. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving. This simple homemade cooking technique adds a final layer of freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Oven Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce:
- Choose ripe tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce heavily depends on the quality of your tomatoes. Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best results.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the tomatoes and vegetables on the baking sheet for even roasting.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs, spices, and seasonings to suit your preference. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the roasting pan for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Creamy sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy version.
- Meat sauce: Brown some ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey) before roasting the vegetables to create a hearty meat sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. However, a typical serving provides a good source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use an online nutritional calculator and input your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This oven-roasted tomato pasta sauce is a testament to the beauty of simple, homemade cooking. It’s a versatile recipe that easily adapts to your preferences, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy!