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This classic Pomodoro sauce has been a staple in my kitchen for years whenever I crave a simple but deeply flavorful tomato sauce. It’s the perfect base for pasta night, and I love how it balances fresh garlic and herbs with the natural sweetness of Roma tomatoes.
I first made this on a busy weeknight and found it so comforting and reliable that it quickly became my go-to for homemade Italian dinners.
Ingredients
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: a good amount for sautéing garlic and enriching the sauce
- Garlic: minced fresh or bottled adds aromatic depth and warmth
- Canned Roma tomatoes with juices: provide the rich tomato base known for their natural sweetness and low moisture
- Onion powder: adds a subtle, savory sweetness without overpowering the sauce
- Dried basil: classic Italian herb brings mild, peppery notes
- Dried oregano: earthy flavor that complements the tomato and basil beautifully
- Sugar: balances the acidity typically found in canned tomatoes
- Salt: essential for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing taste
- Ground black pepper: a gentle heat that livens the sauce
- Fresh chopped basil for serving: adds fresh herbal brightness at the end
- Fresh grated parmesan for serving: adds savory, umami richness on top
Instructions
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant and just starting to turn transparent about 1 to 2 minutes. This step infuses the oil with flavor but avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer:
- Pour in the canned Roma tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a low boil while picking out any extra tomato skins that float to the surface for a smoother texture later.
- Simmer Gently Covered:
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid left slightly ajar for ventilation. Let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to meld.
- Season the Sauce:
- Remove the lid and sprinkle in the onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes so the spices fully integrate.
- Adjust Texture and Final Seasoning:
- Use an immersion blender directly in the skillet to puree the sauce to your desired consistency smooth or chunky. Taste and tweak salt and pepper levels as needed.
- Serve Warm:
- Spoon sauce generously over freshly cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and grated parmesan for vibrant color and extra flavor.
One of my favorite things about this sauce is how garlic gently permeates the entire pot without ever overwhelming the palate. It reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table savoring simple yet delicious food made with care.
Storage tips
Cool the sauce completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve freshness.
Ingredient substitutions
If you are out of dried herbs fresh basil and oregano can be used but add them towards the end of cooking to keep their brightness. Substitute tomato paste with canned tomatoes for a thicker sauce but reduce simmer time to avoid bitterness.
Serving suggestions
This sauce is fantastic served over spaghetti or penne pasta. It also works beautifully as a base for baked pasta dishes lasagna or as a topping for grilled chicken or vegetables.
This recipe combines simplicity with authentic flavors making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special family dinners.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What type of tomatoes work best?
Canned Roma tomatoes are ideal for their balanced sweetness and texture, providing a rich base for the sauce.
- → Can I use fresh garlic instead of bottled?
Yes, fresh minced garlic adds a more robust flavor but bottled garlic is a convenient alternative.
- → Why is sugar added to the sauce?
Sugar balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded flavor.
- → Is it necessary to remove tomato skins?
Removing extra tomato skins improves the sauce's texture, preventing unwanted toughness.
- → How long should the sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer gently for about 30 minutes to fully develop flavor depth.
- → What herbs enhance this sauce best?
Dried basil and oregano are used for their classic aromatic qualities that complement the tomato base.