Go Back
–+ servings
Fresh Tomato Sauce
This fresh tomato sauce recipe is a classic Italian staple, celebrated for its simplicity and vibrant flavor. Originating from traditional Mediterranean kitchens, it features ripe beefsteak tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil. Loved for its versatility, this sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, acts as a base for other dishes, and can be frozen for future use. It’s perfect for bringing a taste of summer to any season with wholesome ingredients and minimal effort.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 115 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 lbs beefsteak tomatoes (about 4 large, cored, peeled, and cut into 3/4-inch chunks)
  • 1/2 tsp table salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped, fresh )
  • ⅛ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Start the Garlic

  • Place olive oil and minced garlic in a large skillet. Start with a cold pan.
  • Turn heat to medium and cook until garlic is sizzling and fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

  • Add tomatoes and salt.
  • Bring to a rapid simmer and cook, stirring occasionally.
  • Reduce heat if the sauce begins to stick to the bottom of the pan.
  • Simmer until thickened and chunky, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 3: Finish the Sauce

  • Remove from heat.
  • Stir in fresh basil.
  • Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Optional – Freeze for Later

  • Cool the sauce completely.
  • Transfer to a 2-cup freezer-safe container.
  • Press plastic wrap directly on the sauce surface, cover, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Defrost in the microwave or refrigerator overnight.

Tips

  • Add a pinch of sugar only if tomatoes are not naturally sweet.
  • For a smoother sauce, purée part or all after cooking.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Replace basil with fresh oregano or parsley.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor.
  • Stir in butter at the end for a richer finish.
  • Add sautéed onions for extra sweetness.
  • Freeze in silicone trays for portioned servings.
  • Use heirloom tomatoes in summer for exceptional flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 115kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6.2gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 430mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.7mg
Keyword easy recipes, freezer-friendly meals, fresh tomatoes, homemade sauce, italian classic, pasta sauce, summer cooking, summer recipe, tomato
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!