Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful sauce that elevates any dish? Look no further! This easy Spanish sauce recipe is your ticket to culinary delight. Perfect for adding a burst of sunshine to your weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering, this homemade sauce is incredibly versatile and surprisingly quick to make. Get ready to experience the magic of simple, delicious cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with vegetable broth)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, 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 bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for our delicious sauce.
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Bloom the spices: Add the smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to release their aromatic oils. This simple step greatly enhances the overall taste of the Spanish sauce.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and red wine (or broth). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Season and serve: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Your vibrant Spanish sauce is ready!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Sauce:
- Don't rush the simmering: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently for a longer period develops a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder sauce, omit it entirely.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will significantly enhance the taste of your sauce.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Spanish Sauce: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Hearty Spanish Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked chorizo or other Spanish sausage during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Creamy Spanish Sauce: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients used. A single serving provides roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 3-5g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy Spanish sauce recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Use it as a pasta sauce, marinade for chicken or fish, or a flavorful addition to your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this quick, healthy, and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire! It’s a great example of how simple ingredients can create truly amazing, homemade meals. Try it today and let us know what you think!