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!
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.