Cooking a homemade tomato pasta sauce is an easy way to elevate your pasta dishes. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly versatile and can be customized to your taste preferences. With a few simple ingredients and a short amount of time, you can have a delicious and satisfying sauce that will make your pasta meals truly memorable.
Preparing an easy tomato pasta sauce requires minimal effort and yields enough to serve multiple portions. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use, making it a convenient choice for meal prepping.
Topped with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, this easy tomato pasta sauce transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary culinary experience. It pairs well with various pasta shapes, including spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. Experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your signature sauce that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
Tomato Pasta Sauce Essentials
Ingredients:
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes with juice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Equipments:
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Immersion blender or regular blender
How To Make Easy Tomato Pasta Sauce
Begin by heating a generous amount of olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
If using red wine, pour it into the saucepan and let it simmer for a few minutes until reduced by half. This adds depth and richness to the sauce. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute until it darkens slightly.
Crushing the tomatoes by hand into smaller pieces enhances their juiciness. Add the crushed tomatoes along with their juice to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes or longer, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken. Use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a regular blender in batches and puree until smooth. Return the blended sauce to the saucepan and heat through.
The easy tomato pasta sauce is now ready to serve. Toss it with your favorite pasta, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
Tips and Variations
For a sweeter sauce, add a pinch of sugar or a dollop of honey while simmering. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Enhance the sauce’s texture by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Stir in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier version. To add a touch of richness and creaminess, swirl in some heavy cream or mascarpone cheese before serving.
The versatility of this easy tomato pasta sauce allows you to customize it endlessly. Explore different variations based on your preferences and available ingredients, and discover your favorite combination that perfectly complements your pasta dishes.
