Pomodoro Pasta Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Italian Flavor: Made with fresh ingredients, this sauce delivers a traditional taste reminiscent of homemade Italian cooking.
• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can have a delicious sauce ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Use it as a base for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté Garlic:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

2. Cook the Tomatoes:

   • Stir in the chopped tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.

3. Blend (Optional):

   • For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture.
   • Alternatively, leave it chunky for a rustic texture.

4. Add Basil and Serve:

   • Stir in the fresh basil and let the sauce cook for another 2 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and serve over pasta or store for later use.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Makes about 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Pomodoro: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper.
• Herb Infused: Add oregano or thyme for additional layers of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned crushed tomatoes work well and save time.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer or add tomato paste for extra thickness.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, but use only 1 teaspoon of dried basil since it has a stronger flavor.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, pomodoro sauce is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add meat to this sauce?

Yes, you can add ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier version.

How do I peel fresh tomatoes?

Blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins will peel off easily.

What pasta pairs best with pomodoro sauce?

Spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work great with this sauce.

Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

How can I reduce the acidity of the sauce?

A pinch of sugar or a small amount of grated carrot can help balance the acidity.

Can I use this sauce for pizza?

Absolutely! Pomodoro sauce makes a great pizza base.

Conclusion

Pomodoro pasta sauce is a simple yet delicious way to bring authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen. Whether served over pasta, as a pizza sauce, or paired with fresh bread, its fresh ingredients and easy preparation make it a must-have recipe for any home cook.

Pomodoro Pasta Sauce

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pomodoro pasta sauce is a simple yet flavorful Italian tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. This classic sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping, offering a fresh, vibrant taste with minimal ingredients in just 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

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Instructions

1. Sauté Garlic:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

2. Cook the Tomatoes:
   Stir in chopped tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

3. Blend (Optional):
   For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture. Leave it chunky for a rustic texture.

4. Add Basil and Serve:
   Stir in fresh basil and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and serve over pasta or store for later use.

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Notes

• Thickness Adjustment: Let simmer longer or add tomato paste for a thicker consistency.
• Acidity Balance: Add a pinch of sugar or grated carrot to reduce acidity.
• Pasta Pairing: Works best with spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.