Authentic Italian Tomato Sauce Recipe

Authentic Italian Tomato Sauce Recipe

Yields: ~4 cups

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 45–60 minutes

 

Ingredients

  • 1 (28oz) can Rega DOP whole peeled tomatoes
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely grated (optional, for natural sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6–8 fresh basil leaves
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)

Instructions

  1. Prep the tomatoes:Pour the canned tomatoes into a bowl and crush them gently with your hands or a fork. Set aside.
  2. Sauté aromatics:Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic (and onion/carrot if using) and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add tomatoes:Pour in the crushed Rega DOP tomatoes along with their juice. Stir to combine.
  4. Season:Add salt, pepper, sugar (if using), oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently.
  5. Simmer:Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 35–45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a deep, rich flavor.
  6. Add fresh basil:About 5 minutes before finishing, tear the fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce.
  7. Adjust seasoning:Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed.
  8. Serve:Toss with your favorite pasta, use as a pizza base, or in any Italian dish that calls for tomato sauce.

Tips for Authenticity

  • Do not over-blend: Italian sauces are traditionally slightly chunky. Crush by hand rather than using a blender.

  • Slow cook: Letting the sauce simmer gently enhances the tomato’s natural sweetness and umami.

  • High-quality ingredients: Rega DOP tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil make a huge difference.

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