How to Make Italian Sauce with Roasted Tomatoes and Garlic

Italian sauce with roasted tomatoes and garlic is a delightful and aromatic addition to various dishes, from pasta to pizza. This method enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while infusing rich flavors from the roasted garlic. Follow these steps to prepare a delicious Italian sauce that will elevate your culinary creations.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes (Roma or San Marzano work best)
  • 1 head of garlic
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a handful of fresh basil)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). The high temperature will help caramelize the tomatoes and garlic, enhancing their flavors.

2. Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and cut them in half lengthwise. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can remove the seeds, but leaving them in will add flavor and texture.

3. Roast the Tomatoes

Place the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, and the dried herbs. Toss the tomatoes lightly to ensure they are evenly coated.

4. Prepare the Garlic

Take the head of garlic, slice off the top to expose the cloves, and drizzle a little olive oil over the exposed cloves. Wrap the garlic in aluminum foil to keep it moist during roasting.

5. Bake

Put the baking sheet with the tomatoes and the wrapped garlic into the oven. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and caramelized, and the garlic is tender and fragrant.

6. Blend the Sauce

Once roasted, remove the tomatoes and garlic from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin into a blender or food processor. Add the roasted tomatoes along with any juices from the baking sheet. Blend until smooth or to your desired consistency.

7. Season to Taste

Transfer the blended sauce into a saucepan and heat over low heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or oregano as needed. If you’re using fresh basil, stir it in at this stage.

8. Serve

Your homemade Italian sauce with roasted tomatoes and garlic is now ready to be enjoyed! This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, can be used as a base for pizza, or served as a dipping sauce with bread. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added pop of color and flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to one week or frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Making Italian sauce with roasted tomatoes and garlic is a simple yet rewarding process that enriches your meals with fresh and vibrant flavors. Experiment with the ingredients and enjoy this versatile sauce in a variety of dishes!