Looking for the perfect pizza sauce recipe to elevate your homemade pizzas? This rich and savory sauce is made from fresh ingredients, providing a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or a loaded veggie pizza, this sauce will be the star of the show. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees a delicious sauce every time!
Ingredients
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 2 cups of pizza sauce, enough for 3-4 pizzas. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about ¼ cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 60
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
4. Add sugar, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
9. Use immediately or store in an airtight container.
10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute crushed tomatoes with tomato puree or passata for a smoother texture. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones, and you can adjust spices to your preference, making this sauce versatile to your taste.
Serving and Pairings
This pizza sauce pairs beautifully with various toppings such as mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, fresh veggies, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or calzones.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much salt can overpower the sauce; add gradually.
- Not simmering long enough may result in a raw tomato flavor.
- Overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness; sauté briefly.
- Skipping the sugar can make the sauce too acidic; balance flavors.
- Not tasting the sauce before serving can lead to unseasoned results.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
- For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika.
- Blend the sauce for a smoother consistency if desired.
- Experiment with additional spices like thyme or parsley.
FAQs
Can I make pizza sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pizza sauce a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before use.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Canned crushed tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use fresh tomatoes if they are in season.
How long does pizza sauce last in the fridge?
Homemade pizza sauce can last up to one week in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze pizza sauce?
Yes, pizza sauce freezes well. Just store it in freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months.
Is this sauce spicy?
The sauce has a mild flavor, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat according to your preference.
Conclusion
This pizza sauce recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your homemade pizzas. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious sauce that enhances any pizza night. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings to make it your own!
Pizza Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Add sugar, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
