Linda CainWhen I think of homemade tomato sauce, my mind ventures into a world of culinary possibilities. Imagine it slathered on swirl pasta, or as a base for a hearty lasagna.
This sauce has a magical ability to amplify a meal. Picture dipping warm, crispy garlic bread into it, or perhaps layering it over a bubbling cheese pizza topped with fresh basil. My favorite? Pouring it over roasted vegetables for an easy weeknight dinner.
Each of these pairings brings out different elements of the sauce, enhancing its flavor while whisking you away on a savory adventure.
Let me take you on a journey through the comforting landscape of homemade cooking. There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of simmering tomatoes. It’s the kind of aroma that warms the soul and brings a grin to your face.
But let’s face it—who has hours to simmer a pot of sauce these days? Fortunately, this quick homemade tomato sauce recipe is here to save the day.
With minimal ingredients and a straightforward approach, you’ll be whipping up a fresh batch in no time. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll discover that homemade sauce is far superior to the stuff in jars.
Trust me, your pasta will thank you.
What is Quick Homemade Tomato Sauce?
Quick homemade tomato sauce is your ticket to flavor town in record time. Made from canned tomatoes and a handful of pantry staples, it embodies simplicity without sacrificing quality. You can create a rich, zesty sauce in just about 20 minutes.
Why spend a Saturday slaving over a hot stove when you can have a vibrant sauce that’s versatile enough for any dish?
It’s a recipe that’s not only easy but also incredibly forgiving, allowing for personal touches. Feeling spicy? Add more peppers! Want a hint of sweetness? Toss in a bit more sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Homemade Tomato Sauce
There are countless reasons to love this sauce, so let’s dive in.
1. Simplicity: You know those days when you want to make a fabulous meal but can’t handle complicated instructions? This sauce is your best friend.
2. Speed: In the time it takes to boil water for pasta, you can have a bubbling pot of sauce ready to pair with it.
3. Customization: You can make it your own. Adjust the herbs, add vegetables, or even switch up the base with gourmet ingredients—it’s your canvas.
4. Healthier Choice: Unlike many store-bought varieties packed with preservatives, this sauce uses fresh ingredients. You control what goes in, making it healthier and tastier.
5. Freezes Well: Make a large batch and store it for future meals. This sauce will save you on those busy weeknights.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Quick Homemade Tomato Sauce
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can of diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 can of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Directions
Let’s get cooking. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delectable sauce that elevates your meal.
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by warming the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Adding oil first not only prevents sticking but sets the stage for richer flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir frequently for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. It might just become one of your favorite scents!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Next, pour in that can of diced tomatoes along with its juices and the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. These will create the luscious base of your sauce. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in the thyme, Italian seasoning, and brown sugar. Yes, you read that right! The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to thicken and meld flavors. It’s the perfect time to dance around the kitchen, humming your favorite tune.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste your sauce. You might want a little more spice, salt, or even a sprinkle of sugar. You’re the chef here; make it sing to you!
Notes
Here are some handy tips to ensure your sauce is perfect every time:
- Use Quality Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes vary in quality. Look for brands that use ripe tomatoes and as few additives as possible.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have basil or parsley on hand, feel free to toss some in just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on Garlic: Garlic adds depth. If you love it like I do, increase the quantity!
- Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze. It’s a lifesaver on weeknights.
Storage Tips
To store your homemade sauce, follow these steps:
- Cool Completely: Allow your sauce to cool to room temperature before storing. This will prevent condensation buildup which can lead to freezer burn.
- Containers: Use airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic containers are perfect. You can also use freezer bags. Just ensure to label them with the date.
- Refrigeration: If you plan to eat it within a week, it can stay in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sauce. It can typically last for 3-6 months in the freezer.
Serving Suggestions
What can you serve with this delightful sauce? Here are my top five suggestions:
- Classic Spaghetti: Cook your favorite spaghetti and toss it with the warm sauce. Add freshly grated Parmesan for a touch of indulgence.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralize some zucchini. The sauce complements the noodles beautifully without overwhelming them.
- Eggplant Parmesan: Dip slices of eggplant in breadcrumbs, fry them up, and layer with the sauce and cheese. Then, bake it until bubbly to create a classic dish.
- Stuffed Peppers: Mix the sauce with cooked rice, beans, and veggies, then stuff into bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender.
- Shakshuka: Use the sauce as a base in a pan, crack eggs into the sauce, and let them cook gently. This Middle Eastern dish is a perfect brunch choice.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Quick Homemade Tomato Sauce?
Sometimes you might find yourself low on ingredients, but no worries! Here are some fabulous substitutes:
- Tomato Paste: If you don’t have diced or crushed tomatoes, you can use tomato paste. Dilute with water for consistency.
- Fresh Tomatoes: If it’s tomato season, go fresh! Use about 2 pounds of vine-ripened tomatoes, blanched and pureed.
- Other Herbs: If you’re out of Italian seasoning, feel free to use oregano, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Onions: Add chopped onions along with garlic for a sweeter base. Sauté them until translucent.
- Vegetable Broth: To give your sauce more depth, use vegetable broth instead of water to adjust the consistency.
Quick Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- large saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 can of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by warming the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Adding oil first not only prevents sticking but sets the stage for richer flavors.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir frequently for about 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. It might just become one of your favorite scents!
- Next, pour in that can of diced tomatoes along with its juices and the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. These will create the luscious base of your sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle in the thyme, Italian seasoning, and brown sugar. Yes, you read that right! The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to thicken and meld flavors. It’s the perfect time to dance around the kitchen, humming your favorite tune.
- After simmering, taste your sauce. You might want a little more spice, salt, or even a sprinkle of sugar. You’re the chef here; make it sing to you!
Notes
- Use Quality Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes vary in quality. Look for brands that use ripe tomatoes and as few additives as possible.
- Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have basil or parsley on hand, feel free to toss some in just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on Garlic: Garlic adds depth. If you love it like I do, increase the quantity!
- Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze. It’s a lifesaver on weeknights.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Quick homemade tomato sauce is like a culinary hug, stepping in to rescue dinner in a flash. It perfectly embodies simplicity without compromising flavor or quality. With its versatility, it pairs beautifully with many dishes, making it a staple in your kitchen.
So, next time you’re perusing the usual jars at the grocery store, remember that you can create something fresh and delightful in no time at all.
Invest those fleeting minutes well, and savor the joy of homemade cooking. Now, roll up those sleeves and get to work. Your tastebuds will be eternally grateful!
