How to Make Italian Sauce with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
Making a delectable Italian sauce with fresh mozzarella and basil is a delightful way to elevate your culinary creations. This sauce is not only rich in flavor but also simple to prepare. Follow these steps to create a sauce that perfectly complements pasta, pizza, or any Italian dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, diced
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with a wonderful garlic aroma.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Next, pour the crushed tomatoes into the saucepan. Stir well to combine with the garlic and oil. This creates a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Season the tomato mixture with salt, black pepper, and sugar if desired. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, giving your sauce a sweeter taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Incorporate Fresh Basil
After simmering, stir in the freshly chopped basil leaves. Simmer the sauce for an additional 5 minutes. The basil will add a burst of freshness that complements the sauce beautifully.
Step 5: Add Fresh Mozzarella
Finally, gently fold in the diced fresh mozzarella. Allow the cheese to melt slightly into the sauce, creating creamy pockets of flavor. Be careful not to overcook the mozzarella; you want it to remain soft and slightly gooey, not completely melted.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian sauce pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or as a delectable topping for homemade pizza. You can also serve it as a dipping sauce for crusty bread.
Storing Your Sauce
If you have leftovers, let the sauce cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to use.
Enjoy your homemade Italian sauce featuring fresh mozzarella and basil, and impress your friends and family with this simple yet flavorful dish!