Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce

Looking for a delicious and easy homemade pasta sauce? This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family meals. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying sauce that pairs wonderfully with any type of pasta. Let's dive into how to make this tasty sauce.

The main ingredient in our recipe today is tomato-based pasta sauce. Tomato-based pasta sauce is one of the most popular sauces for pasta dishes, known for its rich flavor and versatility. It can be used as a base for various types of pasta such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people

Ingredients You Will Need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

Steps to Prepare:

Start by heating up your large saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and once it becomes warm, add the chopped onion and garlic cloves. Stir occasionally until the onions become soft and translucent.

1. Sautee for about 5 minutes before adding the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pan. Mix well so all ingredients are combined evenly.
2. Let everything simmer on low heat while you season it with dried basil, salt, pepper, and optionally some sugar if needed. The heat allows flavors to develop without boiling fiercely which might lead to a less flavorful result.
3. Continue stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
4. If desired, you can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms during this cooking process to enhance flavor further.

Tips and Variations:

• Adding More Flavor: Feel free to experiment by adding other herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary. These not only add depth but also bring out the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
• Vegan Option: For those following a vegan diet, ensure that all ingredients used are plant-based. You could consider using vegetable broth instead of water when diluting your tomato sauce if preferred consistency is lighter.
• Garnishing Suggestions: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese before serving to add extra freshness and richness.

This homemade pasta sauce is not only delicious but also very healthy since it uses whole ingredients rather than processed ones. It’s an excellent way to get more vegetables into your diet. Serve this versatile sauce over hot cooked pasta, or even enjoy it as a topping on pizza for a quick meal. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, whether they are fans of traditional Italian flavors or those looking for something simple yet satisfying.

Conclusion:

Making your own tomato-based pasta sauce couldn't be simpler with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you're a beginner cook wanting to impress friends and family or an experienced chef seeking new ideas, this dish provides a delightful option that suits all skill levels. By taking the time to prepare it yourself, you ensure fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients without any additives or preservatives.