Are you ready to elevate your homemade pizza game? This pizza sauce recipe is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sauce that complements your favorite toppings beautifully. Say goodbye to store-bought sauces and hello to a fresh, zesty, and mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes enough sauce for 2 large pizzas. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 50
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 6g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
4. Add oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
5. If using, add the tomato paste for extra thickness.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
7. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
10. Use immediately or store for later use.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use tomato puree or even diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a brighter flavor, and you can adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
Serving and Pairings
This pizza sauce pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings such as mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, vegetables, or even a drizzle of pesto. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the garlic can make it bitter.
- Not simmering long enough may result in a raw tomato taste.
- Skipping the sugar can make the sauce too acidic.
- Using too much salt can overpower the flavors.
- Forget to taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
– Let the sauce cool before storing to avoid condensation.
– For a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and crush them before adding to the sauce. You may need to cook them longer to reduce moisture.
How long does the sauce last in the fridge?
The sauce lasts for up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for freshness before using.
Can I make this sauce spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce while it simmers for an extra kick.
Is this pizza sauce vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
Can I use this sauce for pasta?
Yes, this pizza sauce also works great as a marinara sauce for pasta dishes!
Conclusion
Making your own pizza sauce is a simple and rewarding process that enhances the flavor of your homemade pizzas. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a sauce that is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings for a truly personalized pizza experience!
Pizza Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste optional
- Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Add oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- If using, add the tomato paste for extra thickness.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Use immediately or store for later use.
