This easy homemade tomato basil sauce is like a hug in a jar! Made with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of garlic, it’s bursting with flavor.
What I love most is how quick it is to whip up. Just simmer everything together and you have a delicious sauce for pasta or pizza. So simple, yet so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the sauce. Extra virgin is great for flavor, but regular olive oil works too. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil is a good alternative.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a robust flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove). Just keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as strong.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and consistent in flavor. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, opt for ripe, flavorful ones. Either way, make sure they’re properly peeled and crushed for the best texture.
Basil: Fresh basil gives the sauce its signature taste, but if you can only find dried basil, use about 1 to 2 teaspoons instead. Fresh is always better if you can get it!
Onion: Onions add a nice sweetness. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them. You can also use shallots for a milder onion flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Isn’t Too Acidic?
Sometimes, tomato-based sauces can turn out a bit tangy. If you’re concerned about acidity, here’s what you can do:
- Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the flavors. It doesn’t make the sauce sweet, but it helps round out the acidity.
- Simmer for longer! Cooking it down can mellow the flavor and reduce acidity.
- Incorporate dairy like cream or cheese if it fits your dish, as it can smooth harsh flavors.
Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (or 2 lbs fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious homemade tomato basil sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful sauce ready to enjoy with your favorite pasta or pizza!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. This is the base for our sauce, so let it warm up nicely.
2. Sauté Garlic (and Onion):
Add the minced garlic and, if you’re using it, the finely chopped onion. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is translucent. Just make sure the garlic doesn’t burn, as it can turn bitter!
3. Add Tomatoes:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes if you prefer). Stir it all together, letting the flavors combine beautifully.
4. Season the Sauce:
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and sugar if you’d like to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir everything well!
5. Let it Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken and develop deep, rich flavors!
6. Mix in the Basil:
About 5 minutes before you finish cooking, stir in your chopped fresh basil. It will add that wonderful aroma and taste that makes this sauce so special.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a little extra pinch of salt can make all the difference!
8. Serve it Up:
Now your homemade tomato basil sauce is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm over your favorite pasta or use it as a base for your pizza. Yum!
Enjoy your fresh, homemade tomato basil sauce!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Just peel and crush them before adding them to the sauce. It might take a little more prep time, but the fresh flavor is fantastic!
How Can I Store Leftover Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some room for expansion when freezing!
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried basil can work as a substitute. Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried basil instead. Just remember that fresh herbs usually give the best flavor!
Is This Sauce Vegan-Friendly?
Yes, this sauce is entirely vegan! It’s made with plant-based ingredients, so feel free to enjoy it with any vegan pasta or dishes!
