This fresh tomato spaghetti sauce is a bright and tasty twist on a classic! Made with juicy tomatoes, garlic, and basil, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of simmering tomatoes! I love to make a big batch and freeze some for later—easy dinners are my favorite. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are essential here. If they’re not in season, look for high-quality canned tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes can be a great choice; they add a nice sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of the powder for each clove.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in this sauce for its flavor. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, regular olive oil will still do the job.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. If fresh is not available, use dried basil, but use about a third of the amount since it’s more potent.
Onion: Yellow or white onion gives a sweet flavor when sautéed. Red onion can also work if you prefer a sharper taste.
How Do I Get My Tomatoes to Peel Easily?
Peeling tomatoes can be tricky, but scoring them helps a lot! Here’s a simple way:
- Bring water to a boil and score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato.
- Blanch in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then quickly transfer to ice water to halt cooking.
- The skin will slide right off, making it easy to chop.
This technique saves time and helps you get ready for that lovely sauce! Happy cooking! 🍅
Fresh Tomato Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious fresh tomato spaghetti sauce will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in about 45 minutes, you’ll have a wonderfully fragrant sauce ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Score a small “X” at the bottom of each tomato to make peeling easier later. Blanch the tomatoes in the boiling water for 30–60 seconds until you see the skin start to peel back. Quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once they’re cool, peel and chop the tomatoes, and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent. This step builds a delicious base for your sauce!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
4. Incorporate the Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes, and if you’re using tomato paste, add it now for an extra depth of flavor. Allow everything to cook on medium-low heat; this gentle cooking will help merge the flavors beautifully.
5. Season the Sauce:
Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Let your sauce simmer uncovered for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help it thicken nicely as the flavors develop.
6. Final Touches:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh basil leaves and taste to adjust seasoning as needed. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sauce from the heat and serve it immediately over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Enjoy your fresh, vibrant tomato spaghetti sauce, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!
Happy cooking! 🍝
FAQ About Fresh Tomato Spaghetti Sauce
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned whole or diced tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Opt for high-quality, preferably San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. Use about 2-3 cups of canned tomatoes, and simply skip the blanching step!
How Can I Store Leftover Sauce?
Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What If My Sauce Is Too Acidic?
If your sauce tastes too acidic, you can balance it out by adding a bit more sugar (1/2 teaspoon at a time) or a splash of cream. Taste frequently and adjust until the flavors are just right!
Can I Make This Sauce Vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly. Just ensure that any pasta you choose is also free of eggs. Enjoy it with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a hearty meal!
Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions while making your sauce!
