Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Are you ready to transform your pasta nights with a delightful homemade spaghetti sauce? This easy recipe combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a sauce bursting with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, you’ll never reach for store-bought again after trying this! Let’s dive into the world of homemade goodness that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, grated
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste.
5. Sprinkle in the sugar, oregano, and basil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
8. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
10. Serve hot over your favorite pasta.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if desired. Fresh tomatoes can replace canned ones, just ensure they are ripe and juicy.
Serving and Pairings
This homemade spaghetti sauce pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice. It also complements garlic bread, a fresh salad, or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it until hot.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t rush the simmering process; it enhances flavor.
– Avoid over-salting; you can always add more later.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Don’t skip the sugar; it balances acidity.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
– Adjust herbs based on your taste preferences.
Helpful Tips
– Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– Use a splash of red wine for depth.
– Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; add them at the end.
– Make it a day ahead for even better flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but ensure they’re ripe. You may need to adjust cooking time as fresh tomatoes will have more moisture.
How long does homemade spaghetti sauce last?
In the fridge, it lasts up to 5 days. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Absolutely! Just ensure that any broth used is vegetable-based, and you can skip the cheese when serving.
What pasta pairs best with this sauce?
While traditional spaghetti is great, this sauce is versatile and pairs well with any pasta shape like penne or fettuccine.
How can I thicken my spaghetti sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer to reduce it, or add a bit of tomato paste for thickness.
Conclusion
Homemade spaghetti sauce is a simple yet rewarding dish that transforms your pasta meals into culinary delights. With fresh ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a sauce that’s full of flavor and love. Enjoy making it for your family and friends, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot grated
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste.
- Sprinkle in the sugar, oregano, and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve hot over your favorite pasta.
