Stop Buying Jar/Can Pasta Sauce and Use This Recipe Instead

The Art of Homemade Pasta Sauce

Jarred or canned pasta sauce can be convenient, but nothing beats the taste and satisfaction of homemade sauce. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a pasta sauce that far surpasses store-bought versions in both flavor and quality. Here's an easy and delicious recipe to get you started on your homemade pasta sauce journey.

Classic Homemade Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

• Fresh garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced

• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped

• Canned whole tomatoes: 1 large can (28 oz), preferably San Marzano tomatoes

• Fresh basil leaves: A handful, chopped

• Salt: To taste

• Ground black pepper: To taste

• Sugar: A pinch (optional, to balance acidity)

• Red pepper flakes: A pinch (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions

1.     Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

2.     Add Tomatoes

• Crush the canned tomatoes with your hands or a potato masher and add them to the saucepan, including the juice.

• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomatoes before adding them.

3.     Simmer

• Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

• Add the chopped basil, salt, pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

• Let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes. A longer simmering time will develop more flavor.

4.     Adjust Seasonings

• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Depending on the tomatoes' acidity, you might need a bit more sugar or salt.

5.     Serve

• Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, cooked al dente.

• Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil, if desired.

Storage

• The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Tips for a Perfect Pasta Sauce

• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended for their sweet flavor and low acidity.

• Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match.

• Simmering Time: Don’t rush the simmering process, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of water or pasta cooking water to thin it out.

A Simple Switch to Superior Flavor

Making your own pasta sauce is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. This basic tomato sauce recipe can be the foundation for a variety of dishes, from spaghetti to lasagna to pizza. By ditching the jarred sauce and embracing homemade, you're taking a step towards healthier, tastier, and more authentic cooking. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!