Tomato Basil and Garlic Sauce is a classic, flavorful blend that brings together the richness of ripe tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the bold aroma of garlic.
Simple yet versatile, this homemade sauce adds depth to pasta, pizza, or any Italian-inspired dish.
Its balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic notes makes it a timeless kitchen staple that elevates everyday meals into something truly comforting and delicious.
How To Make Tomato Basil And Garlic Sauce?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Yield: About 8 servings
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board & knife
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 pounds ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
1. Heat the Oil and Build the Base
Warm the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and onion, stirring gently until softened and fragrant without browning.
2. Add Tomatoes and Paste
Stir in the diced ripe tomatoes along with the tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer so the paste deepens the flavor and the tomatoes begin releasing their juices, forming a rich base.
3. Balance and Season
Sprinkle in the sugar to cut acidity, then season with salt and black pepper. If desired, add oregano for an herbal layer and red chili flakes for subtle heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Simmer Slowly
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 45–60 minutes. Stir occasionally as the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens into a silky consistency.
5. Finish with Basil
Once thickened, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Allow them to wilt briefly in the residual heat before removing the sauce from the stove.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once rich and silky, remove from the heat. Serve immediately over your delicious food or store in jars for later use.
Nutrition Facts Of Tomato Basil And Garlic Sauce
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrate:12 g
- Protein: 2 g
Which Goes Well With Tomato Basil And Garlic Sauce?
❖ Over Pasta: Toss the sauce with freshly cooked spaghetti, penne, or fusilli for a classic Italian meal.
❖ As a Pizza Base: Spread it on pizza dough instead of store-bought sauce for a fresh, homemade flavor.
❖ With Grilled Meats: Serve as a topping or dipping sauce for grilled chicken, steak, or lamb.
❖ Over Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle on roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra taste.
Tips & Variations
✔ Adjust the Consistency: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce or add a splash of vegetable broth for a lighter version.
✔ Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for depth and richness.
✔ Make it Creamy: Stir in a little cream or butter at the end for a smooth, velvety texture.
✔ Storage Tip: Cool completely and store in airtight containers; refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a convenient alternative and work well for this sauce.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
Yes, but fresh basil provides a more vibrant, aromatic flavor.
Can I blend the sauce for a smoother texture?
Yes, use a blender or immersion blender for a silky finish.
Does it require sugar?
A small amount balances acidity, but it’s optional depending on your taste.
Can I cook it in advance and then reheat it?
Yes, it reheats well on the stove or in the microwave without losing flavor.
Conclusion
Tomato Basil and Garlic Sauce is more than just a condiment—it’s a burst of freshness and flavor that transforms simple dishes into hearty, comforting meals.
Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this sauce is a must-have recipe, bringing homemade warmth and authentic taste to your table every time.
Tomato Basil And Garlic Sauce
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board & knife
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 8 pounds ripe tomatoes seeded and diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves torn or chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes optional, for a little heat
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and onion, stirring gently until softened and fragrant without browning.
- Stir in the diced ripe tomatoes along with the tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer so the paste deepens the flavor and the tomatoes begin releasing their juices, forming a rich base.
- Sprinkle in the sugar to cut acidity, then season with salt and black pepper. If desired, add oregano for an herbal layer and red chili flakes for subtle heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 45–60 minutes. Stir occasionally as the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens into a silky consistency.
- Once thickened, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Allow them to wilt briefly in the residual heat before removing the sauce from the stove.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once rich and silky, remove from the heat. Serve immediately over your delicious food or store in jars for later use.
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.