Spaghetti sauce is a warm embrace in a bowl, bursting with vibrant flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine ripe tomatoes simmering with fragrant garlic, sweet bell peppers, and a hint of zesty lemon juice, creating a rich, velvety sauce that clings lovingly to your pasta. Fresh basil and oregano add a garden-fresh aroma, while a dash of vegetable broth brings depth without the need for wine. This delightful recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria. Dive in and savor every bite!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s bursting with fresh flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.
- Made with wholesome ingredients, so you can feel good about every bite.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it a great meal prep option!
spaghetti sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget your favorite pasta!
- Chop the onion and garlic finely. Dice the tomatoes if using fresh ones. This is where the magic begins!
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant and golden.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes. If you’re using canned tomatoes, pour them in with their juices. Let it simmer!
- Add basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the flavors mingle for about 20 minutes.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
- Pour the sauce over cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil or grated cheese if you like. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free Option |
| Serves: | 4-6 |
| Best Served: | With pasta, garlic bread, or salad |
Ingredients
- Olive oil – A flavorful base for sautéing and adding richness.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – Adds a fragrant kick and enhances overall flavor.
- Carrot – Brings natural sweetness and balances acidity.
- Celery – Contributes a subtle earthiness and texture.
- Canned crushed tomatoes – The star ingredient for a rich, tomatoey base.
- Vegetable broth – A great substitute for meat broth, adding depth without meat.
- Dried oregano – Infuses the sauce with classic Italian flavor.
- Dried basil – Complements the tomatoes and adds a fresh aroma.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sauce.
- Black pepper – Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
- Red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Sugar – Balances acidity from the tomatoes for a smoother taste.
- Fresh parsley – A bright garnish that adds freshness when serving.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to create a mouthwatering spaghetti sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget your favorite pasta!
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the onion and garlic finely. Dice the tomatoes if using fresh ones. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant and golden.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes. If you’re using canned tomatoes, pour them in with their juices. Let it simmer!
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Add basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the flavors mingle for about 20 minutes.
Step 6: Blend for Smoothness (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve with Love
Pour the sauce over cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil or grated cheese if you like. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a vibrant flavor boost.
•Opt for crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier texture.
•Simmer the sauce longer for deeper flavors; patience pays off!
•Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if needed.
•Experiment with vegetable broth for a savory depth without meat.
How to Serve
- Serve over al dente spaghetti for a classic touch.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Pair with garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
- Add a side salad with a zesty vinaigrette for freshness.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition.
- Use as a filling for stuffed peppers or lasagna for a twist.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
- Try it with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow spaghetti sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
• Portion sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of water or broth if sauce is too thick.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for spaghetti sauce?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can add a vibrant flavor to your spaghetti sauce. Just make sure to peel and chop them before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they break down properly.
What can I use instead of wine in my spaghetti sauce?
If you want to avoid wine, try using vegetable broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. Both options will enhance the flavor without the alcohol.
How can I make my spaghetti sauce thicker?
To thicken your sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a longer time. You can also add a bit of tomato paste or some grated carrots for natural sweetness and thickness.
Can I freeze spaghetti sauce for later use?
Yes, spaghetti sauce freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a great meal prep option.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite spaghetti sauce recipe! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as you whip this up, bringing back those cozy family dinners. So grab your ingredients, let your creativity flow, and enjoy every bite. Cooking should be fun and rewarding, and this sauce is sure to bring smiles to the table. Buon appetito!
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