Classic Salsa de Tomate (Tomato Sauce)
This traditional salsa de tomate combines fresh tomatoes with aromatic herbs and spices to create a versatile sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, and more. Its rich flavors and vibrant color make it the heart of countless Mediterranean dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) fresh ripe tomatoes (Roma or beefsteak recommended)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
- Wash tomatoes thoroughly and remove stems. Cut into quarters.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until light golden, about 1-2 minutes. Add onion if using and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add tomatoes to the pan. For chunkier texture, leave in quarters; for smoother sauce, briefly blend before adding.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Allow sauce to simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add salt, pepper, and dried oregano halfway through cooking time.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add torn basil leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using or storing.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, roast tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before adding to the sauce.
- The sauce will thicken as it cooks; adjust consistency by varying simmer time.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender after cooking.
- Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for batch cooking.
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 1500IU
- Vitamin C: 25mg
- Calcium: 25mg
- Iron: 0.7mg