Health-Conscious Tomato Sauce
A flavorful and healthy tomato sauce made with fresh ingredients and no added sugar.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 Blender or Immersion Blender
Ingredients
Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 large onion yellow or white
- 2 cloves garlic fresh
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Tomato Mixture
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes canned, no salt added
- 15 ounces tomato sauce canned, no salt added
- 6 ounces tomato paste canned, no salt added
- 0.5 cup vegetable broth low sodium
Flavor
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 45 minutes, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve the tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, vegetables, or as a base for pizza. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a bay leaf during simmering and remove it before serving. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrients and flavor.