Crafting a Light Tomato-Based Sauce is an art that highlights simplicity and fresh, high-quality ingredients. This versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, grilled vegetables, or as a base for more complex recipes. The vibrant, acidic sweetness of ripe tomatoes is beautifully balanced with aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic, creating a flavorful addition to a wide range of dishes. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated dinner, this light tomato sauce is a go-to recipe that elevates your cooking with its fresh and robust flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for a smooth base
- 1 medium onion finely chopped, for sweetness
- 2 garlic cloves minced, for aromatic depth
- 1 carrot grated, for natural sweetness and thickness
- 28 ounces canned whole tomatoes preferably San Marzano, crushed by hand, for rich tomato flavor
- 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, for seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn, for a fragrant finish
- 1 tsp dried oregano for earthy undertones
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated carrot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, including their juice for more flavor. If using, sprinkle in the sugar to help balance the tomatoes’ natural acidity. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in the fresh basil and dried oregano towards the end of cooking. These herbs add a layer of freshness and complexity to the sauce.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, carefully transfer the cooked sauce to a blender and purée until smooth. This step is optional and based on your texture preference.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs, according to your preference.
- Serve: Use the sauce immediately with your favorite pasta, as a pizza base, or as a cooking sauce for proteins and vegetables. It also freezes well for future use.
Notes
- Gently Sauté Your Aromatics: Sautéing onions and garlic on low heat until they are just translucent (not browned) helps bring out their natural sweetness without introducing bitter flavors.
- Adding Depth: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine with the tomatoes. The wine adds complexity and a slight richness to the sauce.
Add a Comment