Simple Homemade Tomato Sauce

Name: Simple Homemade Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1.5 cups
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra‑virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion (about 150 g / 5 oz), finely diced; 2 garlic cloves (≈10 g / 0.35 oz), minced; 800 g (28 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand; 1 tsp (5 ml) kosher salt; ½ tsp (2.5 ml) freshly ground black pepper; ½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried oregano; ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) dried basil; A pinch of red‑pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp (5 ml) sugar (optional, to balance acidity); Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

★★★★★4.8 (18 reviews)

SaucesItalianOctober 4, 2026

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This tomato sauce captures the bright, clean flavor of Italy using only everyday pantry ingredients. It comes together in about twenty minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals or last‑minute gatherings. The sauce is versatile: serve it warm over spaghetti, spread it on pizza dough, or let it cool for a refreshing cold dip. By avoiding any pre‑made pastes or concentrates, you retain the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while controlling salt and spice levels. The result is a sauce that feels both rustic and refined, suitable for any home cook seeking authenticity without fuss.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Tool	Purpose
Saucepan (2‑qt)	Even heat distribution for simmering the sauce
Wooden spoon	Stirring without scratching the pan
Chef’s knife	Precise dicing of onion and garlic
Cutting board	Stable surface for chopping
Measuring spoons	Accurate seasoning quantities
Measuring cup	Portioning oil and liquids

Why This Recipe Works

The success of this sauce lies in three simple principles: heat control, layering of flavor, and balance of acidity. Starting with a hot pan ensures the olive oil coats the bottom, preventing the onion from sticking and allowing it to release its natural sugars. Adding garlic after the onion prevents it from burning, which would introduce unwanted bitterness. Finally, the combination of dried herbs and a pinch of sugar creates a harmonious flavor profile that mimics the complexity of slow‑cooked sauces without the time investment.

For more background, see the history of sauces, and general guidance on safe food handling.