How to Make Italian Sauce with Red Wine and Herbs

If you're looking to elevate your Italian dishes, mastering a rich and flavorful sauce with red wine and herbs is a fantastic skill. This sauce not only enhances your pasta dishes but can also be served over meats and vegetables. Here’s how to make a delightful Italian sauce using red wine and fresh herbs.

Ingredients You Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup red wine (a dry variety like Chianti or Merlot)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. The aroma of the garlic and onions will fill your kitchen!

Step 3: Pour in the red wine, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the wine to reduce by half. This step will help concentrate the flavors and give your sauce a deep, rich taste.

Step 4: Once the wine has reduced, add the crushed tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If time permits, allowing it to simmer for 1-2 hours will provide a more robust flavor.

Serving Suggestions