Homemade Pasta Sauce

Looking for a quick and delicious pasta sauce that can be made in less than 30 minutes? Homemade pasta sauce is the way to go! This versatile sauce pairs perfectly with various pastas, adding flavor to every bite.

Ingredients Needed:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped finely
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps:

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Once the onions are softened, add minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Add the crushed tomatoes and water into the saucepan. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to allow all flavors to meld together. The longer you simmer, the more intense your flavor becomes!

For an extra touch of sweetness that balances out the acidity in tomatoes, add a tablespoon of sugar. This step is optional but highly recommended if you're using canned tomatoes which can sometimes taste too acidic.

Optional Enhancements:

Garnish: To enhance your pasta sauce visually and nutritionally, consider sprinkling some fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving. It adds that last-minute freshness to each dish.
Protein Addition: If you want to increase the protein content of this meal, mix in cooked chicken, beef, or any other meat of choice into your sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking time for a heartier dish.

Cooking Time & Servings:

This homemade pasta sauce can be prepared within about 30 minutes and serves four people generously. Each portion provides approximately one cup of flavorful sauce, ensuring everyone at the table gets their fair share!

For those with busy schedules who still want to enjoy quality meals, this recipe is perfect as it requires minimal time investment yet delivers big on taste.

Tips for Success:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients instead of canned ones. The difference in flavor can make all the difference!
Adjust Salt Taste: Always start with less salt since it's easy to add more but difficult to take away once added.
Vary Spices: Experiment by adding other herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes according to your preference for an extra kick!

Storage Options:

The prepared sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of it. Thawed frozen pasta sauces retain good flavor quality; however, they may not achieve ideal consistency.

This homemade pasta sauce offers a delightful balance between simplicity and complexity, making it an essential addition to your culinary repertoire whether you're cooking for friends or family. Enjoy creating this dish while savoring its rich flavors!