How to Make an Italian Herb-Infused Tomato Sauce
Creating an Italian herb-infused tomato sauce is a delightful way to bring the flavors of Italy into your home kitchen. This sauce can enhance pasta dishes, pizza, or even serve as a base for various recipes. Follow this simple guide to whip up a fresh and aromatic Italian herb-infused tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, mixing well with the sautéed onion and garlic. If you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, add the teaspoon of sugar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
Step 3: Infuse with Herbs
Introduce the fresh or dried herbs to the sauce. Add the chopped basil, oregano, and parsley, along with the red pepper flakes if you’re looking for some heat. Stir well to ensure the herbs are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If the sauce becomes too thick, feel free to add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste your sauce. You might want to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. If it's too acidic, a little more sugar can balance it out.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Your Italian herb-infused tomato sauce is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or incorporate it into other dishes as desired. If you have leftovers, allow the sauce to cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer-term storage.
Tips for the Best Sauce
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic taste.
- Experiment with different herbs according to your taste. Thyme and rosemary can also add unique flavors.
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender after simmering.
This Italian herb-infused tomato sauce is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich taste of homemade sauce that can elevate any dish!