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–+ servings
San Marzano DOP tomatoes for homemade basic tomato sauce
5 from 1 vote

Basic Tomato Sauce (Chef Niko's House Recipe)

A slow-simmered basic tomato sauce built on San Marzano tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic — the foundation of dozens of dishes.
Servings 4 servings
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes, DOP certified
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 clove garlic smashed and peeled
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 5-6 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter optional, for finishing

Instructions

  • Pour the canned tomatoes into a bowl and crush them by hand into an uneven, chunky pulp.
  • Warm olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook 3–4 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  • Discard the garlic. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
  • Simmer uncovered on low heat for 25–30 minutes until thick and deeply colored.
  • Stir in torn basil. Remove from heat and swirl in butter if using. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Notes

Sauce keeps refrigerated for up to 5 days, or frozen for 3 months.
Author: Nikolaos Saragias
Calories: 120kcal
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Italian Gravy, Marinara Sauce, Tomato Sauce

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Sodium: 380mg