Craving a hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce? Look no further! This homemade spaghetti sauce recipe combines fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs to create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this sauce is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (about 1 cup): Calories: 150, Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fat: 6g, Fiber: 4g. This nutritional value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add tomato paste.
- Mix in dried oregano, basil, and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce heat.
- Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute crushed tomatoes with diced tomatoes for a chunkier sauce. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This spaghetti sauce pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or grated Parmesan cheese. It also complements grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds depth to the flavor.
- Overcooking the garlic can make it bitter.
- Using low-quality canned tomatoes can affect taste.
- Be cautious with salt; taste as you go.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for the full time for best results.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine while cooking.
- Let the sauce cool before freezing for best results.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
You can use additional crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute, but the sauce may be a bit thinner.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Yes, this spaghetti sauce freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Certainly! Ground beef, turkey, or sausage can be added for a heartier sauce. Brown the meat before adding other ingredients.
Conclusion
This spaghetti sauce recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delicious sauce that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your pasta night with this delightful homemade sauce!
Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add tomato paste.
- Mix in dried oregano, basil, and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce heat.
- Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley.