Pasta sauce is a culinary staple, and for many, the quickest and easiest way to make it is by using canned tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple and are widely available, making them a convenient choice for busy home cooks. The natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes make them an ideal base for pasta sauce. Here’s a scrumptious recipe for pasta sauce that utilizes canned tomatoes as its main ingredient, creating a flavorful and versatile sauce that can elevate any pasta dish.
The secret to a delicious homemade pasta sauce lies in the selection of high-quality ingredients. Opt for canned tomatoes that are packed without salt or citric acid. These tomatoes retain their natural flavor, allowing you to control the seasoning and acidity of your sauce. Fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, and rosemary, add aromatic notes and enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
This recipe is a perfect starting point for creating your own customized pasta sauce. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, herbs, and vegetables to create a sauce that perfectly suits your palate. Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a touch of red wine can add depth and complexity to the sauce. Whether you prefer a smooth, velvety sauce or a chunky, rustic one, this recipe provides a flexible base that you can adapt to your liking.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Equipment:
- Saucepan or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Wooden spoon
How to Make Pasta Sauce Using Canned Tomatoes
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the garlic, oregano, and basil to the saucepan. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Pour the drained tomatoes into the saucepan. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes.
Step 4: Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. If using a regular blender, allow the sauce to cool slightly before blending.
Step 6: Stir in the chopped parsley.
Tips and Possible Variations
For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted canned tomatoes instead of regular canned tomatoes.
Add a touch of sweetness to your sauce by stirring in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.
If you prefer a chunkier sauce, simply chop the tomatoes instead of pureeing them.
You can also add other vegetables to your sauce, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
This pasta sauce can be used to make a variety of pasta dishes, including spaghetti, penne, and lasagna. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for bread or vegetables.