Are you ready to elevate your pasta nights? Forget jarred sauces – this homemade roasted tomato sauce recipe is a game-changer. Bursting with rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavors, it's the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and healthy meal. It’s so easy, even beginner cooks will find it a breeze, making it one of the best recipes for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is also perfect for batch cooking – double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, preferably heirloom varieties (about 6-8 medium)
- 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 touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
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: In a large bowl, toss the chopped onion, smashed garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Spread everything in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deeper, more complex flavor than simply sautéing them.
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Bake to Perfection: Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. You'll know they're ready when they've collapsed a bit and are easily pierced with a fork.
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Blend the Sauce: Once the tomatoes are roasted, carefully transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the balsamic vinegar (if using). Blend until smooth, or leave some texture if you prefer a chunkier sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a bit more salt, pepper, or herbs.
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Serve and Enjoy: This delicious homemade roasted tomato sauce is ready to be used immediately. Serve it over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or as a base for other dishes. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Sauce:
- Choose the right tomatoes: Ripe, flavorful tomatoes are key to a great sauce. Heirloom varieties add beautiful color and unique flavors.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Make sure the tomatoes and onions are in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast until caramelized: Don't rush the roasting process. The caramelization of the tomatoes is what gives the sauce its incredible depth of flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Herby Sauce: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Add them during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. However, a typical serving of this roasted tomato sauce is low in calories and fat, and provides a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredients and portion size.
This simple roasted tomato sauce recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and the vibrant flavors will impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy!