Traditional Italian Tomato Sauce: A Flavorful Calabrese Classic
In the world of Italian cooking, few things are as comforting and versatile as a well-made tomato sauce. Our Traditional Italian Tomato Sauce is a true Calabrese gem, delivering a robust flavor that surpasses any store-bought version. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the art of cooking it to perfection. With just a little patience, you can create a sauce that’s both fresh and flavorful, ideal for pairing with your favorite pasta. 🌿🍅
Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil 🫒
- 3/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes 🍅 (or use 1 1/4 cups tomato puree for a smoother sauce)
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 🌶️
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 🌱
Instructions:
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Sauté the Onions: Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes or until they become soft and translucent. The goal here is to bring out the natural sweetness of the onions, which will add depth to your sauce.
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Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Once the onions are ready, stir in the diced tomatoes (or tomato puree) along with the salt, black pepper, and dried basil. The combination of these ingredients will create a base that’s both savory and aromatic.
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Simmer to Perfection: Increase the heat and bring the sauce to a boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the saucepan. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully. Be sure to check on the sauce a few times, stirring occasionally and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
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Avoid Overcooking: It’s essential to not overcook the sauce. Cooking it too long will cause it to lose its fresh, vibrant taste. If you’re adding meat or additional ingredients, adjust the cooking time accordingly, but always taste and season to your liking.
This sauce is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it with pasta, using it as a base for a pizza, or even dipping bread into it, the rich, tangy flavor will shine through. In just about 20 minutes of hands-on time, you’ll have a delectable homemade tomato sauce that’s far superior to anything off the grocery store shelf.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 54.3
- Fat: 3.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 368.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 5.5g
- Fiber: 1.4g
- Sugar: 3.3g
- Protein: 1g
Enjoy your homemade Calabrese tomato sauce with a delightful pasta dish or as a base for countless recipes. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Buon appetito! 🍝🍽️
