Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe With Fresh Or Canned Tomatoes
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Why You’ll Love Homemade Tomato Sauce:
- Versatile and customizable: Whether you’re using fresh tomatoes in the summer or canned tomatoes during the off-season, this recipe adapts perfectly to what you have on hand. You can also tweak the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Packed with fresh flavors: With the perfect blend of tomatoes, garlic, and basil, this sauce delivers a vibrant, “just-made” taste that elevates any dish it accompanies.
- Simple and easy to make: This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal kitchen tools, making it an excellent choice for home cooks of all levels.
- Healthier than store-bought: Made from wholesome, simple ingredients, this sauce is free of preservatives and unnecessary additives.
- Multi-purpose delight: Use it on pasta, pizza, or even as a base for stews and casseroles – the possibilities are endless with this all-purpose tomato sauce.
Packaged pasta sauce tastes pretty generic. If you want a restaurant quality tomato sauce for your pasta dish, make your own homemade tomato sauce from scratch – it’s just so much tastier than the tomato sauce from the can!You can make your own tomato sauce using either fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes. When the fresh tomatoes are in season and they are cheap and plentiful, I use fresh, and when the fresh tomatoes are not in season or I simply don’t have them on hand, I use canned. Homemade tomato sauce beats the jarred tomato sauce no matter what kind of tomatoes you use! Homemade tomato sauce has this fresh “just made” taste and intense tomato, basic and garlic flavor. Dress your pasta with this homemade tomato sauce made from scratch, and a simple meal of pasta with tomato sauce will taste extraordinary!
Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe With Fresh Or Canned Tomatoes
Tomato Sauce Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes (or 28 oz can whole tomatoes with juice) – The star of the sauce! Fresh tomatoes bring brightness, while canned are convenient and flavorful year-round.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic depth and a hint of spiciness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Provides sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 tbsp dried basil (you can also use oregano instead) or 1 bunch fresh – Enhances the sauce with a classic Italian herb flavor. Dried oregano can be used for variation.
- 2 tbsp oil – For sautéing the onion and creating a rich base.
- salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Homemade Tomato Sauce:
- Non-stick frying pan – Perfect for sautéing and simmering without sticking.
- Knife – For chopping tomatoes, onion, and mincing garlic.
- Cutting board – A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
- Vegetable peeler – Handy for peeling fresh tomatoes easily.
- Food processor (optional) – Ideal for achieving a smoother sauce consistency if desired.
- Measuring spoons – To ensure the perfect amount of seasoning and oil.
Instructions How To Make Tomato Sauce
- If using fresh tomatoes, peel them (I peel with a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, the same way as peeling an apple).
- If using canned tomatoes, take them out of the can and reserve the juice.
- Chop the tomatoes.
- Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring periodically, for 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and their juice. Stir, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and basil. Stir, cover and simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- If the sauce is too chunky, you can process it in the food processor to desired consistency.
Enjoy this yummy homemade tomato sauce! For another great tomato sauce recipe you can make at home from scratch, see Pomi tomato sauce recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- Toss this homemade tomato sauce with freshly cooked Instant Pot Pasta or penne for a simple yet flavorful pasta dish.
- Use it as a topping for Easy Homemade Pizza, adding your favorite cheeses and toppings for a custom creation.
- Pair it with Juicy Meatballs for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Serve as a dipping sauce alongside Homemade Garlic Cheese Bread or Crispy Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for an appetizer.
- Use it as a base for dishes like Cheesy Eggplant Parmesan or baked ziti for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner.
Tips For Success
- Choosing the tomatoes: If you’re using fresh tomatoes, go for ripe, firm ones with vibrant color. Roma or plum tomatoes work best due to their lower water content and robust flavor. Canned whole tomatoes are an excellent alternative and often have a consistent taste.
- Peeling fresh tomatoes easily: To save time, blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will slip off effortlessly.
- Cooking the onions perfectly: Make sure to sauté the onions until they’re translucent and soft. This step develops their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Adjusting the consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved juice from canned tomatoes or a splash of water. For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender or food processor.
- Seasoning to taste: Don’t skip tasting the sauce before serving! Add salt and pepper in small increments to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
- Using fresh basil: If using fresh basil, add it toward the end of cooking to preserve its bright, aromatic flavor. Dried basil or oregano can go in earlier to allow the herbs to release their full essence.
- Storing and reheating: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat on the stovetop or microwave for best results.
Variations And Substitutions
- Herb swaps: Swap dried basil with oregano or Italian seasoning for a different herb profile. Fresh thyme or parsley can also be added for a more complex flavor.
- Add veggies: Enhance the sauce with finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added texture and nutrition. Grate the veggies if you want them to blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- Make it spicy: For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper when sautéing the onions. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- Go creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese toward the end of cooking to create a creamy tomato sauce. This variation pairs beautifully with pasta.
- Protein-packed: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey for a hearty meat sauce. Alternatively, stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
- Vegan and dairy-free: This recipe is naturally vegan, but if you’d like extra creaminess without dairy, blend in cashew cream or coconut milk.
- Tomato variety: Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, for unique flavor notes. Cherry tomatoes bring a natural sweetness to the sauce.
- Roasted flavor: Roast the fresh tomatoes, garlic, and onions in the oven before simmering for a rich, smoky depth. This variation is especially great for fresh tomatoes at their peak.
- Wine-enhanced: Deglaze the pan with a splash of red or white wine after cooking the onions to add complexity to the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Portion it into smaller servings for convenience. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing: To thaw frozen sauce, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Reheating: Warm the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened during storage, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Tips for freshness: Always use a clean spoon when scooping out the sauce to avoid introducing bacteria and extend its shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cherry tomatoes to make this sauce?
Yes, cherry tomatoes are a great option for this sauce! They have a naturally sweet flavor and require little preparation. You can use them whole or slice them in half before cooking, and they’ll break down beautifully during simmering.
What’s the best way to peel fresh tomatoes?
The easiest method is to blanch them. Boil the tomatoes for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will loosen and can be peeled off effortlessly. Alternatively, you can use a vegetable peeler for firmer tomatoes.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, or freeze it for longer storage.
What can I do if my sauce is too acidic?
If your sauce tastes too acidic, try adding a pinch of sugar or a splash of heavy cream to balance the flavor. This helps to neutralize the acidity and create a more rounded taste.
Can I omit the onions or garlic?
Yes, you can adjust the recipe to your preferences. If you don’t like or can’t have onions or garlic, you can leave them out and still enjoy a delicious tomato sauce. Adding other aromatics, such as celery or fennel, can provide extra depth instead.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, stirring occasionally. You can also blend the sauce partially to incorporate the tomato solids for a heartier texture.
What’s the best oil to use for this recipe?
Olive oil is the traditional choice for tomato sauce, adding a rich, fruity flavor. However, you can use vegetable oil or any neutral-tasting oil if preferred.
Can I use this sauce for pizza?
Definitely! This sauce works wonderfully as a pizza base. If you prefer a thicker sauce for pizza, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.
Other Easy Tomato Recipes
Corn Avocado Tomato Salad – A refreshing blend of sweet corn, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish.
Stuffed Tomatoes in the Air Fryer – Juicy tomatoes filled with a savory stuffing and air-fried to golden perfection in minutes.
Crispy Baked Green Tomatoes – Healthy and Easy Recipe – Tangy green tomatoes coated in a crunchy breading and baked for a guilt-free, crispy treat.
Fresh Tomato Toast – A simple yet satisfying snack featuring ripe tomatoes layered over crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil.
Southern-Style Tomato Gravy – A rich and hearty gravy made with fresh tomatoes, perfect for spooning over biscuits or rice.
Tomato Artichoke Salad with Marinated Artichoke Hearts – A vibrant salad combining tangy marinated artichokes and sweet tomatoes for a flavorful bite.
Parmesan-Crusted Roasted Tomatoes – Tender roasted tomatoes topped with crispy Parmesan and herbs for a savory, cheesy side dish.
Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe With Fresh Or Canned Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh tomatoes or one 28 oz can of whole tomatoes with juice
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 tbsp dried basil or substitute with oregano or 1 bunch fresh basil
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1/4 tsp Salt and pepper to taste
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Non-stick Frying pan
- Food Processor optional
Instructions
- If using fresh tomatoes, peel them with a sharp knife or vegetable peeler.
- Chop the tomatoes into small pieces. If using canned tomatoes, reserve the juice and chop the tomatoes.
- Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until softened.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and their juice to the pan. Stir well, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and basil. Cover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, process the sauce in a food processor to your desired consistency.
- Serve with your favorite pasta or use in recipes that call for tomato sauce.
Notes
- Fresh tomatoes work best when they are in season for peak flavor.
- Use canned tomatoes for convenience or when fresh tomatoes are unavailable.
- Adjust the consistency by blending or adding reserved juice as needed.
Nutrition
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Melanie: I turn to your website frequently to find recipes. I love how you make great dishes simply. I am a KETO cook for the most part & find many good recipes here. I can always change a few things to make KETO friendly dishes, so that’s what I do if there is an interesting recipe I want to try. Thanks for all your postings & notifications.
Thanks, Susan! I’m really happy that you like my recipes!