Are you ready to elevate your pasta nights? Forget jarred sauces; this recipe for San Marzano tomato sauce will transform your cooking. Made with the incredibly flavorful San Marzano tomatoes, this sauce is incredibly easy to make and delivers an authentic taste of Italy. It's the perfect base for countless dishes, from simple spaghetti to more elaborate lasagna. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for delicious and healthy meals. This simple recipe makes homemade cooking easier than ever before. Get ready to experience the best recipes for a truly satisfying homemade sauce.
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces San Marzano tomatoes, canned, peeled
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the tomatoes: Add the canned San Marzano tomatoes to the saucepan. Crush them slightly with a spoon or your hand to break them down.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This slow cooking process creates a depth of flavor you won’t find in store-bought sauces.
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Blend (optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend in batches.
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Garnish and serve: Once the sauce is ready, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or enjoy it as a dipping sauce for bread.
Tips for the Best San Marzano Tomato Sauce:
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of this sauce relies heavily on the quality of the San Marzano tomatoes. Look for canned San Marzano tomatoes that are labeled as such, as they have a distinct sweetness and less acidity compared to other varieties.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Low and slow cooking is key to developing the rich and complex flavors in this sauce. Allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer period will intensify the taste.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and salt to your personal preference. Some like a spicier kick, while others prefer a milder flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage. Freezing is a great way to save time for quick weeknight dinners.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the sauce with other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Incorporate meat: For a heartier sauce, brown some ground meat (beef, pork, or sausage) before adding the onions.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, use them instead of dried herbs. The fresh basil is a nice touch at the end but also consider adding fresh oregano or thyme during the simmering process.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and ingredients used. For a rough estimate, one serving may contain approximately:
- Calories: 100-150
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a great way to explore easy recipes and homemade cooking. Enjoy!