Name: Spicy Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (The foundation of our sauce, adding richness and depth.); 1 medium-sized yellow onion (Diced to provide a sweet and savory base.); 3 cloves garlic (Minced for that aromatic kick.); 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (For the heat that makes this sauce special.); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Concentrated flavor that enhances the tomato essence.); 1 28 ounce can peeled whole tomatoes (The star ingredient, providing a fresh tomato flavor.); 1 sprig fresh basil (Adds a fragrant herbal note.); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (A blend that rounds out the flavors.); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (Essential for enhancing all the flavors.)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a batch of Spicy Tomato Sauce at home. The aroma of sizzling garlic and onions fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to my grandmother’s cozy Italian kitchen. I remember as a kid, watching her stir the pot, the vibrant colors of the tomatoes mingling with her secret spices, creating an unforgettable sauce that made each pasta dish sing. This sauce isn’t just a sidekick to your favorite dishes; it’s the star that elevates them. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this Spicy Tomato Sauce brings warmth and love to the table. It’s perfect over pasta, as a dip, or even on pizza. If you’re ready to dive into a culinary adventure, let’s make this flavorful sauce together!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Saucepan, Peeler, Cutting Board

What Sets This Spicy Tomato Sauce Apart

It’s All About Flavor

One of the things I absolutely adore about this Spicy Tomato Sauce is how it packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours of preparation. Using fresh ingredients and a few simple spices, you can create a sauce that rivals any restaurant. The combination of extra virgin olive oil, onions, and garlic creates a savory base, while the crushed red pepper flakes add that essential kick, perfect for spice lovers.

Homemade vs Storebought

Once you’ve tasted homemade Spicy Tomato Sauce, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again. The freshness of ripe tomatoes and the ability to adjust the seasoning to your taste can’t be matched. Plus, making it at home means you know exactly what’s going into your sauce, avoiding preservatives and artificial flavors.

Versatility is Key

This sauce is incredibly versatile! You can use it as a base for pasta dishes, a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or even a topping for grilled chicken or vegetables. The options are endless, and that’s what makes this Spicy Tomato Sauce a staple in my kitchen. I love experimenting with it, whether I’m making a classic spaghetti or trying something new.

Batch Cooking

Cooking a large batch of Spicy Tomato Sauce is a game-changer. You can store it in the fridge or freeze it for later, making weeknight meals a breeze. I often make a double batch so I have some ready for those busy days when I need a quick yet delicious meal.

Perfect for Family Gatherings

Whenever I have family over, this sauce is always a hit. It brings everyone together, and I can feel my grandmother’s spirit in the kitchen as I prepare it. Sharing a meal made with this Spicy Tomato Sauce feels like a warm hug, a way of connecting with loved ones through food.

What to Buy for Spicy Tomato Sauce

The ingredients in this recipe create a beautiful harmony of flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance in your Spicy Tomato Sauce. Let’s dive into these essential ingredients and see how they work together.

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of our sauce, adding richness and depth.
1 medium-sized yellow onion: Diced to provide a sweet and savory base.
3 cloves garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick.
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes: For the heat that makes this sauce special.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated flavor that enhances the tomato essence.
1 (28 ounce) can peeled whole tomatoes: The star ingredient, providing a fresh tomato flavor.
1 sprig fresh basil: Adds a fragrant herbal note.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that rounds out the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

Making Spicy Tomato Sauce

Cooking the Spicy Tomato Sauce is a simple yet rewarding process. Let’s dive into the steps!

Add olive oil to a 12-inch high-sided skillet and set over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to warm until it shimmers, indicating that it’s ready for the next step.
Once the oil is hot, add the onion and sauté just until they start to soften, turning translucent in color, about five minutes. You’ll notice the sweet smell of the onions filling the room.
Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about one minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Stir in the tomato paste. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavor of the sauce. Mix well, ensuring the paste coats the onions and garlic.
Pour in the canned peeled whole tomatoes, including the juice. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes gently, creating a chunky texture.
Add the sprig of fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt. Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing them to meld together beautifully.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for twenty minutes, gently breaking up the tomatoes as they cook. You’ll want the sauce to thicken, transforming into a rich, hearty consistency.
After twenty minutes, the sauce should have thickened nicely. Remove the sprig of basil, and it’s now ready to be used as desired. You can serve it immediately or let it cool.
Store any cooled sauce in a plastic container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. It’s perfect for a quick meal later in the week!

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh tomatoes: If you’re feeling ambitious, try using fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. This can enhance the flavor significantly.
Adjust the spice level: Don’t be afraid to tweak the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Let it simmer longer: For deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer longer than twenty minutes, just be sure to stir occasionally.
Herbs matter: Always opt for fresh herbs when possible, as they elevate the taste of your sauce.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you want to get creative with your Spicy Tomato Sauce, here are some adaptations you might consider.

Storage: This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Freezing: Freeze this sauce for up to three months for a quick meal later. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve your sauce over spaghetti, zoodles, or even as a base for lasagna. It’s versatile!
Spicy Variations: Add additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Boost: For added nutrition, toss in diced bell peppers or mushrooms while sautéing the onions.

Great Combinations for Spicy Tomato Sauce

When it comes to serving Spicy Tomato Sauce, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy this delightful sauce:

Pasta dishes: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. It’s wonderful with spaghetti, penne, or even gnocchi.
Pizza topping: Spread it on your pizza dough before adding cheese and toppings for a spicy twist.
With protein: Use it as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish, adding a flavorful punch to your protein.
Vegetable dishes: Drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an extra flavor boost.
Side dishes: Serve it alongside crusty bread or breadsticks for dipping; it’s a great appetizer!

FAQ

Absolutely! Using fresh tomatoes can enhance the flavor of your Spicy Tomato Sauce. Just make sure to peel them first, which can be done by blanching in hot water for a minute, then plunging them into ice water. This method makes the skins easy to remove. Fresh tomatoes will add a vibrant taste, especially if they’re in season.

If you’re not a fan of overly spicy dishes, you can easily adjust the heat in this Spicy Tomato Sauce. Start by using less crushed red pepper flakes than the recipe calls for, and taste as you go. You can always add more if desired. Alternatively, if you want to add depth of flavor without the heat, consider using smoked paprika instead.

This Spicy Tomato Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three to four days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Freeze the sauce in portions for easy use later. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming.

The Spicy Tomato Sauce is incredibly versatile! You can use it over your favorite pasta, as a topping for pizza, or even as a sauce for baked chicken. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables too. The richness of the sauce adds depth to any dish, making it a great multi-purpose sauce to keep on hand.

Conclusion

What makes this Spicy Tomato Sauce truly special is its rich flavor and versatility that can elevate any dish. Cooking it from scratch not only brings out the best in the ingredients but also adds a personal touch to your meals. I encourage you to try making this sauce at home; you won’t be disappointed! It’s a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire that everyone will love.

Spicy Tomato Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, this Spicy Tomato Sauce brings a satisfying kick to any dish. With fresh ingredients and a simple method, it’s the perfect addition to pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. Discover this easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to please everyone!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Wooden Spoon
Skillet
Saucepan
Peeler
Cutting Board

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil The foundation of our sauce, adding richness and depth.
1 medium-sized yellow onion Diced to provide a sweet and savory base.
3 cloves garlic Minced for that aromatic kick.
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes For the heat that makes this sauce special.
2 tablespoons tomato paste Concentrated flavor that enhances the tomato essence.
1 28 ounce can peeled whole tomatoes The star ingredient, providing a fresh tomato flavor.
1 sprig fresh basil Adds a fragrant herbal note.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend that rounds out the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

Instructions

Add olive oil to a 12-inch high-sided skillet and set over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to warm until it shimmers, indicating that it’s ready for the next step.
Once the oil is hot, add the onion and sauté just until they start to soften, turning translucent in color, about five minutes. You'll notice the sweet smell of the onions filling the room.
Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about one minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Stir in the tomato paste. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavor of the sauce. Mix well, ensuring the paste coats the onions and garlic.
Pour in the canned peeled whole tomatoes, including the juice. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes gently, creating a chunky texture.
Add the sprig of fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt. Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing them to meld together beautifully.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for twenty minutes, gently breaking up the tomatoes as they cook. You’ll want the sauce to thicken, transforming into a rich, hearty consistency.
After twenty minutes, the sauce should have thickened nicely. Remove the sprig of basil, and it’s now ready to be used as desired. You can serve it immediately or let it cool.
Store any cooled sauce in a plastic container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. It’s perfect for a quick meal later in the week!

Notes

This recipe makes around 4 cups of sauce.
You can double this recipe, but you must cook it in a larger pan or saucepot.
This will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.