How to Make Homemade Tomato Sauce
Learn how to make tomato sauce at home! Made with fresh tomatoes, this simple, flavorful recipe is perfect for serving on pasta, pizza, and more.
For many, making this homemade tomato sauce is one of the highlights of late summer. Just like bruschetta or a good Caprese salad, it’s something I reserve for this time of year when fresh tomatoes are at their sweetest and juiciest.
This tomato sauce boasts a slightly looser, chunkier texture compared to traditional marinara sauce, with a flavor that is both sweeter and fresher. Whether you have a bountiful garden or just a few fresh tomatoes from the market, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the season’s best produce.
Fresh Tomato Sauce Recipe Ingredients
To make this homemade tomato sauce, you’ll need the following:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium Tomatoes | 3 pounds |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Shallot | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cane Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Basil | 1 sprig |
| Red Pepper Flakes | To taste |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
The complete recipe with measurements is provided below.
How to Make Tomato Sauce
Step 1: Start by removing the tomato skins and seeds. Slice the tomatoes in half, using a small spoon to scoop out the seeds.
Step 2: Grate the cut side of each tomato half on a box grater. The tomato flesh will fall through, while the skins remain. Discard the skins.
Step 3: Cook the sauce by sautéing the shallot and garlic in a medium pot with olive oil. Once fragrant, add the grated tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, sugar, red pepper flakes, and herbs. Simmer for 30 minutes until thickened. Remove the basil sprig, season with salt and pepper, and enjoy!
Homemade Tomato Sauce Serving Suggestions
Most often, I serve this fresh tomato sauce over pasta. Just toss it with your favorite pasta for a fulfilling summer meal. Tip: Fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese elevate this dish remarkably.
Feeling creative? Here are more ways to enjoy this sauce:
- Spread it on homemade pizza.
- Use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
- Serve it over polenta or rice.
How to Store Fresh Tomato Sauce
If you don’t plan to use the freshly cooked sauce immediately, allow it to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
This sauce freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep!
More Seasonal Cooking Basics
If you enjoyed this fresh tomato sauce recipe, you might also like to try making:
- Homemade Pesto
- Classic Marinara Sauce
- Roasted Vegetable Sauce
Conclusion
Making your own homemade tomato sauce is not only simple but also a delightful way to savor the summer flavors. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that outshines store-bought options. Enjoy this versatile sauce on pasta, pizza, or incorporate it into other dishes, and relish the taste of summer all year round!