If you love sauce that bursts with flavor, you’re in for a treat! My Easy Roasted Tomato Sauce is rich, simple, and perfect for any meal. Using just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a wholesome sauce that will elevate pasta, pizzas, and more. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the delicious steps to make this homemade delight!
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
– 2 pounds ripe, juicy tomatoes
– 1 medium onion
– 4 cloves garlic
Pantry Staples
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
– Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper
Garnishes
– Fresh basil leaves
When making easy roasted tomato sauce, you want to use fresh ingredients. The better the produce, the better the sauce will taste. I find that ripe, juicy tomatoes give the sauce a rich flavor. You need about 2 pounds, which is roughly 6-8 medium tomatoes.
Next, grab a medium onion. I use one onion for its sweetness and depth. It adds a nice balance to the sauce. For that extra kick, we will also use 4 cloves of garlic, left unpeeled. Roasting garlic enhances its flavor, making it rich and smooth.
Now, let’s talk about pantry staples. You will need 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This oil not only adds flavor but helps the vegetables roast well. I like to add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for a lovely herby touch. If your tomatoes taste too acidic, consider adding 1 teaspoon of sugar. It helps balance the flavors, but it’s optional. Lastly, remember to season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
For garnishing, fresh basil leaves are a must. They add a burst of color and flavor to your dish. You can chop them up or leave them whole when serving. They really elevate the dish!
For the full recipe, you can check the details in the previous sections. Enjoy the cooking process!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Arrange tomatoes, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet.
Start by preheating your oven. This step is key for roasting. Next, take your ripe tomatoes, cut them in half, and place them cut side up. Quarter your onion and add it to the sheet. Don’t forget the garlic! Leave it unpeeled for rich flavor. Spread everything out evenly. This helps them roast well.
Season and Roast
– Drizzle olive oil and season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
– Roast for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.
Now, drizzle olive oil over the veggies. This adds a nice richness. Sprinkle dried oregano, sea salt, and cracked pepper on top. Give everything a good toss. Make sure all the pieces are coated. Place the baking sheet in your hot oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want a nice caramel color.
Blend and Adjust
– Cool, squeeze garlic from skins, and combine ingredients.
– Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning.
After roasting, take the baking sheet out. Let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to handle. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins. Add this soft garlic to your baked veggies. Now, it’s time to blend! Put everything into a blender. Add any juices from the baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle in some sugar to balance the sauce. Blend until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
This easy roasted tomato sauce is ready to use in your favorite dishes. For the complete process, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Flavor
Using ripe tomatoes is key for great taste. They bring sweetness and depth to your sauce. Look for tomatoes that are firm, but slightly soft when you press them. This means they are juicy and ready to cook. If you find the sauce too sour, adding sugar can help balance the taste. Start with just a teaspoon. Blend it in and taste again.
Roasting Technique
To roast tomatoes evenly, spread them out on the baking sheet. Avoid stacking them on top of each other. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece. Check for doneness by looking for caramelized edges and soft centers. You want them to be tender but not mushy.
Blender Tips
A high-speed blender works best for a smooth sauce. It creates a silky texture you will love. If you only have a food processor, that works too. Just blend longer to reach the same consistency. If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up.
Variations
Herb Infusions
You can boost the flavor of your sauce by adding fresh herbs. I love using thyme or rosemary. Just toss in a few sprigs before roasting. This will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma. You can also try crushed red pepper for a little heat. It adds a nice kick to the sauce.
Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor
Want more depth? Try adding roasted bell peppers or zucchini. They blend well with tomatoes and add sweetness. Parmesan cheese is another great option. Stir it in after blending for a rich and creamy touch. This makes your sauce taste even more gourmet.
Dietary Adjustments
If you’re vegan, skip the cheese or use a substitute. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. For a low-sugar option, leave out the sugar. You can balance acidity with a splash of vinegar instead. This keeps your sauce tasty while meeting dietary needs.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store your roasted tomato sauce in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. It will last in the fridge for up to a week. Always check for signs of spoilage before using.
Freezing for Future Use
Freezing is a great way to save your sauce for later. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir it well to bring back its smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your roasted tomato sauce with pasta or use it as a pizza base. It adds rich flavor to both dishes. You can also use it in soups and stews. Just add it to your pot for a delicious twist. This sauce is versatile and boosts any meal! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
FAQs
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To make your sauce thicker, cook it longer. This allows water to evaporate. You can also add a splash of tomato paste. It adds thickness and flavor. Another option is to use less oil. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Look for high-quality, whole tomatoes. They have great flavor. Drain excess liquid for a thicker sauce. You can roast them in the oven before blending. This brings out their natural sweetness.
What types of tomatoes work best?
Heirloom tomatoes are juicy and full of flavor. They add a rich taste to your sauce. Roma tomatoes are also great. They are meaty and low in water content. Both types give you a lovely sauce.
How long does homemade tomato sauce last?
Homemade tomato sauce lasts about a week in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. You can freeze it for longer storage. It stays good for about three months in the freezer. Just thaw it in the fridge before using.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty roasted tomato sauce. We started with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Then, we roasted them to build flavor and blended them into a smooth sauce. Tips on variations and storage helped you customize your sauce and keep it fresh.
Now, it’s time to get cooking. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and share your sauce with friends!
