Fresh Tomato Sauce

Name: Fresh Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 cups
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 kg ripe tomatoes (about 10 large); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 bay leaf; 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); 1/4 cup fresh oregano (chopped)

60 min 6 cups Easy

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Fresh Tomato Sauce

A delightful fresh tomato sauce perfect for pasta and more, capturing the essence of ripe, juicy tomatoes.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Sauce aux tomates fraiches, or fresh tomato sauce, is a staple in many kitchens. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favourite for pairing with pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce. The rich taste of ripe tomatoes combined with aromatic herbs creates a sauce that is both vibrant and comforting. Making tomato sauce from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavour, resulting in a sauce that is both fresher and more flavourful than store-bought versions. With its bright colour and robust taste, this sauce is a celebration of fresh produce.

Instructions

Prepare the tomatoes

Score a small 'X' on the bottom of each tomato. Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel and roughly chop.

Pro tip: Blanching makes peeling tomatoes easier.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Pro tip: Avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness.

Add tomatoes

Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir in sugar, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.

Pro tip: Sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Simmer the sauce

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.

Pro tip: The longer you simmer, the richer the flavour.

Finish with herbs

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in fresh basil and oregano. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Pro tip: Fresh herbs should be added at the end for maximum flavour.

Blend (optional)

For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend until desired consistency. Serve warm.

Pro tip: A chunky sauce can also be delightful, especially with rustic dishes.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavour.
Blanch tomatoes for easy peeling.
Adjust seasoning to taste after simmering.
Store leftovers in airtight containers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store fresh tomato sauce?

Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute with two 28-ounce cans of whole peeled tomatoes.

What is the best way to peel tomatoes?

Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then place them in an ice bath to peel easily.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce liquid and thicken naturally.

Can I add other herbs?

Yes, feel free to experiment with thyme, parsley, or rosemary for different flavour profiles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fresh tomato sauce over your favourite pasta, or use it as a base for homemade pizza. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw and reheat gently before serving.