It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. Homemade spaghetti sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, perfect for a comforting family meal. With fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and a touch of garlic, this sauce is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it over spaghetti or using it in a lasagna, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value per serving (1/4 of the recipe) is approximately 150 calories, 7g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle in sugar, oregano, and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reducing heat to low.
- Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re out of fresh tomatoes, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This homemade spaghetti sauce pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, but it can also complement meatballs, stuffed shells, or even as a pizza sauce. Serve it with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
To store, let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not sautéing the onions long enough can lead to a raw taste.
- Using too much salt can overpower the sauce; always season to taste.
- Skipping the sugar can make the sauce too acidic.
- Not letting it simmer long enough can result in a watery sauce.
- Using dried herbs instead of fresh can affect the flavor.
- Overcooking the garlic can lead to bitterness.
- Not tasting the sauce as you go can result in imbalance.
Helpful Tips
- Always use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Add a splash of red wine for depth and richness.
- Let the sauce sit for a few hours or overnight for flavors to meld.
- Experiment with different herbs to find your perfect blend.
- Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used; just make sure to peel and chop them before adding to the sauce. You’ll need about 2-3 pounds of fresh tomatoes for equivalent flavor.
How long can I store homemade spaghetti sauce?
Homemade spaghetti sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing.
Can I make this sauce vegetarian?
Absolutely! This sauce is naturally vegetarian. You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
What can I serve with spaghetti sauce?
This sauce is perfect over spaghetti, but it also pairs well with other pasta types, meatballs, lasagna, or even as a pizza topping.
Is it necessary to add sugar?
Adding sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. However, it’s optional; you can adjust based on your taste preference.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! This sauce can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving.
How can I thicken my spaghetti sauce?
To thicken your sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid content, or add a cornstarch slurry or some grated cheese for added thickness and flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this homemade spaghetti sauce recipe is a delightful addition to any pasta dish. It’s simple to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. With fresh ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a sauce that will impress everyone at your dinner table. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle in sugar, oregano, and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reducing heat to low.
- Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutrition
