I love this simple pasta sauce. It uses two awesome ingredients; fresh tomatoes and basil. I am using a lot of tomatoes in my cooking lately. Not only are they abundant at this time of the year, they are also one of my favorite summer vegetables. I love them in salsa, in bruschetta and in pizza. In this recipe, the fresh chopped tomatoes were simply sautéed in onion and garlic. Balsamic vinegar and fresh basil were used to further enhance the flavor of this refreshing sauce. This sauce is so versatile, you can serve it with any pasta. My family enjoyed this easy tomato basil sauce with handmade noodles. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Tomato Basil Sauce
To make the most out of your tomato basil sauce, choosing the right tomatoes is key. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties are particularly delicious. When preparing the sauce, be sure to chop the tomatoes into smaller pieces. This allows them to break down more easily while cooking, giving the sauce a nice, thick consistency. Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and translucent before adding the tomatoes. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce. If you want a smoother sauce, consider using an immersion blender after cooking. Just blend it to your desired consistency. Finally, remember to taste your sauce as it cooks. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and don’t hesitate to add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. A little sweetness can balance the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Notes
The simplicity of this sauce relies heavily on the quality of its ingredients. Fresh basil is a must. Look for vibrant green leaves that are fragrant and free from brown spots. If you can, buy basil from a local farmer’s market. It tends to have more flavor than store-bought options. For the tomatoes, make sure they are fully ripe, as under-ripe tomatoes can lead to a bland sauce. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned San Marzano tomatoes can be a fantastic substitute. They are known for their sweetness and low acidity. Balsamic vinegar adds a depth of flavor, but if you prefer a lighter taste, red wine vinegar can work well too. For extra richness, consider adding a splash of olive oil as you finish cooking the sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the sauce a nice sheen.
Serving Suggestions
This tomato basil sauce is incredibly versatile. While it’s fantastic with pasta, it can also be used in other dishes. Try it as a base for a pizza. Spread a thin layer on your dough and top with fresh mozzarella and more basil. For a heartier meal, serve it over grilled chicken or fish. The acidity of the tomatoes pairs wonderfully with rich proteins. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, use it as a dipping sauce for fresh bread or as a topping for bruschetta. Garnish your dish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of extra basil for a vibrant presentation. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthy side dish. The options are endless, making this sauce a staple in your kitchen for various meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Canned tomatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh tomatoes really shine in this recipe. If you go the canned route, try to choose whole peeled tomatoes for better texture.
How should I store leftover sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months if you want to save some for later.
What pasta pairs best with this sauce?
This sauce goes well with just about any pasta, but I love it with spaghetti or fettuccine. Short pastas like penne or fusilli also work great, catching all that delicious sauce.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Making the sauce ahead is a great idea. It gets even better as the flavors meld, so just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
What if my sauce tastes too acidic?
If the sauce is a bit too acidic, adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. You can also stir in a little extra olive oil to smooth things out.
Easy Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 2 lbs ripe fresh tomatoes cored, halved and roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- A bunch of fresh basil leaves roughly chopped
Instructions
- Heat saucepan over medium heat. Add olive oil and onion; cook for 5 minutes or until onion has softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for a minute. Add the tomatoes and the vinegar; stir to combine.
- Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper; cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in chopped basil, reduce heat to low and then continue cooking for another 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite pasta.
Notes
Nutrition
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