Are you ready to transform your spaghetti dinners with a rich, flavorful homemade sauce? This homemade spaghetti sauce recipe combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a dish that will impress your family and friends. With a blend of herbs, tomatoes, and a touch of love, this sauce is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, grated
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add tomato paste, mixing well.
5. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
7. Let the sauce cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
10. Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian option, ensure your tomato paste is vegan-friendly.
Serving and Pairings
This homemade spaghetti sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti, but it also complements meatballs, ravioli, or lasagna. Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the garlic can lead to bitterness.
- Not seasoning enough may result in a bland sauce.
- Using low-quality tomatoes can affect the flavor.
- Skipping the simmering step can yield a watery sauce.
- Rushing the cooking process may not allow flavors to develop.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Let the sauce sit for a few hours to enhance the taste.
- Experiment with adding red wine for depth.
- Try blending the sauce for a smoother texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll need to peel and chop them. You’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes to replace a 28 oz can.
How long can I store homemade spaghetti sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing flavors to meld even more.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, the sauce itself is gluten-free, but ensure that the pasta you use is also gluten-free if you require a gluten-free meal.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Certainly! Adding ground beef, sausage, or turkey can create a hearty meat sauce. Brown the meat before adding other ingredients.
Conclusion
This homemade spaghetti sauce recipe is a delightful way to elevate your pasta dishes with fresh flavors and simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed with family or friends, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot grated
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add tomato paste, mixing well.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Let the sauce cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley.
