How to Make Italian Sauce with Roasted Garlic and Herbs

Italian sauce is a beloved staple in numerous cuisines around the world. One of the best ways to elevate your Italian sauce is by incorporating roasted garlic and fresh herbs. This method not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen. Follow this simple recipe to create a scrumptious Italian sauce that can be used for pasta, pizza, or as a base for various dishes.

Ingredients

6-8 cloves of garlic
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of dried basil
1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Italian Sauce

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the cloves of garlic and remove their skins, leaving them whole. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the garlic and wrap them in aluminum foil. Place the foil packet in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes until the garlic becomes soft and caramelized. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the garlic to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Roasted Garlic

Once the roasted garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the cloves out of their skins directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Use a wooden spoon to mash the garlic into the sauce. This will infuse the sauce with a rich, garlicky flavor.

Step 4: Simmer and Season

Let the sauce simmer on low heat for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the flavors will meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it using an immersion blender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once your Italian sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Serve it hot over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza base, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley for that authentic Italian touch.

Tips for the Best Italian Sauce

Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor if you opt for fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique taste.
For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine before the garlic.
Prepare a larger batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later.

This Italian sauce with roasted garlic and herbs is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. By adding roasted garlic, you'll achieve a depth of flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary creation!