This 30-minute tomato sauce is a versatile, quick-cook staple built on Italian flavor fundamentals. Using canned plum tomatoes and tomato paste for depth, it's balanced with garlic, onion, olive oil (or butter), and a touch of sugar. Whether you're dressing pasta, topping a pizza, or simmering meatballs, this sauce delivers a rich, satisfying taste with minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a foundational sauce to customize with herbs or spice.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter ( or olive oil)
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
- ½ cup onion (chopped )
- 2 cups Italian plum tomatoes (canned , with juice)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup water
- ½-1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat butter or olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion.
- Cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes & Paste
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and their juices.
- Add tomato paste and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Simmer & Season
- Pour in the water and add sugar, starting with ½ tsp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
- Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips
- Add a small pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Stir in a handful of fresh basil right before serving.
- Replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Simmer longer (45 to 60 minutes) for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Add a splash of red wine during the onion sauté stage.
- Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
- Blend the finished sauce for ultra-silky consistency.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or peppers for extra vegetables.
- Mix in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan for savory depth.
- Double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals.
Nutrition
Calories: 38kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.05gTrans Fat: 0.01gSodium: 87mgPotassium: 291mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 779IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 21mgIron: 1mg
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