Tired of the same old jarred pasta sauce? Craving a vibrant, flavorful sauce that tastes like summer? Then get ready to elevate your pasta game with this incredibly easy and delicious roasted tomato pasta sauce recipe! This homemade sauce is bursting with fresh, sun-ripened tomato flavor, and it's surprisingly simple to make. It's the perfect example of how a little extra effort in the kitchen can yield incredibly rewarding results, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a truly special meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved or quartered (Roma, heirloom, or a mix are all great!)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Roast the Vegetables: Toss the halved tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer.
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Roast to Perfection: Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. You'll know they're ready when they're easily pierced with a fork. Stir halfway through to ensure even roasting.
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Blend the Sauce: Once the tomatoes are roasted, let them cool slightly. Then, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the water (or broth) and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse a few times instead of blending completely.
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Simmer and Season: Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Toss your favorite pasta with the roasted tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the delicious, homemade goodness!
Cooking Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce:
- Tomato Selection: Use the best quality tomatoes you can find. Ripe, flavorful tomatoes will make a huge difference in the taste of your sauce.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the tomatoes are in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote even roasting and caramelization.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder sauce, omit them altogether.
- 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, or freeze it for longer storage.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
- Herby Tomato Sauce: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
- Meaty Tomato Sauce: Brown some ground meat (beef, pork, or Italian sausage) before roasting the vegetables and add it to the sauce at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients and portion size. However, this recipe provides a good source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a relatively healthy meal option. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and serving size.
This roasted tomato pasta sauce is a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients. It's a delicious and easy recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!