Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a simple yet delicious sauce that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this Basic Vegetarian Tomato Sauce! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a savory, aromatic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing and your kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of Italian herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this sauce is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re tossing it with spaghetti or using it as a base for your favorite dishes, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Don’t miss out on the chance to create a homemade sauce that’s fresher and tastier than anything from a jar!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 can of crushed tomatoes (400g), 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers slightly.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan. Sauté the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft. This will enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Once the onion is softened, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
- Next, pour in the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine the tomatoes with the sautéed onion and garlic.
- Add the dried basil and dried oregano to the sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- After 20 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat. Serve it over your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for other dishes. Enjoy your homemade vegetarian tomato sauce!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and herbs instead of dried ones to enhance the flavor of your sauce. Fresh basil, in particular, can elevate your sauce to new heights!
- Sauté Slowly: Take your time when sautéing the onions. Cooking them slowly until they are translucent will deepen their flavor and add sweetness to your sauce.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a smoother sauce, don’t hesitate to use an immersion blender to achieve your desired texture. This is especially useful if you’re serving the sauce to children or those who prefer a less chunky sauce.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also stir in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer period will deepen the flavors. If you have the time, let it cook for up to 30 minutes for an even richer taste.
- Make It Ahead: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for later use. Just reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your sauce over your favorite pasta, but don’t stop there! It also works wonderfully as a pizza base or a dipping sauce for breadsticks.By following these tips, you’ll create a vegetarian tomato sauce that’s not only delicious but also tailored to your personal taste. Happy cooking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
