How to Make Italian Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes and Garlic
Making authentic Italian sauce with fresh tomatoes and garlic is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Italy to your home kitchen. This simple yet flavorful recipe highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients and can elevate a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza. Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious Italian sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of fresh ripe tomatoes (Roma or San Marzano are ideal)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by washing the fresh tomatoes thoroughly. To remove the skin easily, bring a pot of water to a boil. Prepare a bowl with ice water. Score the bottom of each tomato with a small "X," then blanch them in the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove them and immediately transfer to the ice water bath. Once cooled, the skins should peel off easily. Chop the tomatoes and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Once the garlic is ready, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if desired. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes but can be omitted based on your preference.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for a little longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add freshly chopped basil at the end for a burst of flavor. You can also blend the sauce with an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if preferred.
Step 6: Serve
Your homemade Italian sauce is now ready to be served! Pair it with your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza base, or enjoy it with bread. This delightful sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later use.
Enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite with this easy-to-follow recipe for Italian sauce made with fresh tomatoes and garlic!