Overview:

This homemade pizza sauce is a flavorful blend of crushed tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices, simmered to perfection. It’s easy to make and perfect for your favorite pizza recipes or as a versatile sauce for various dishes.

Full Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Full Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Cover the saucepan with a lid, slightly ajar, and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender.
9. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Notes:

– For a richer flavor, let the sauce simmer longer, up to an hour.
– This sauce can be frozen for up to three months. Portion it into smaller containers for easy use later.
– Use this sauce for pizza, pasta, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Yield:

Approximately 3 cups of pizza sauce

Serving Suggestions:

This sauce is perfect for homemade pizzas, but it can also be used as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, a base for pasta dishes, or even as a topping for baked chicken or vegetables. Enjoy!