San Marzano Tomato Sauce

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

• Yields: ~3 cups of sauce (serves 4–6)

 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or whole and removed later, for a milder taste)

• 1 can (28 oz / 800g) whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes

• ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, only if needed)

• 6–8 fresh basil leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried basil)

• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

• Optional: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for richness

 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

• Pour the San Marzano tomatoes into a bowl.

• Using your clean hands or a fork, crush them gently into a chunky purée. Remove any tough stems or skins if present.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

• Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30–45 seconds). Do not brown—it should stay pale to avoid bitterness.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

• Add the crushed tomatoes with juices to the pan. Stir well.

• Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

• Simmer uncovered on low heat for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will reduce slightly and thicken as the flavors concentrate.

Step 4: Add Basil and (Optional) Butter

• In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in fresh basil leaves torn by hand.

• For a silkier texture and depth of flavor, swirl in butter just before turning off the heat.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

• Taste the sauce. If it’s a bit too tangy, add a small pinch of sugar. If too thick, thin with a splash of water or reserved pasta water.

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🍝 How to Use San Marzano Tomato Sauce

This sauce is incredibly versatile:

• Tossed with spaghetti or rigatoni

• As the base for Neapolitan pizza

• Layered into lasagna or baked ziti

• Served with meatballs

• Spoon over grilled chicken or eggplant

 Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, adding water if it’s too thick.

 Nutritional Information (Per ½ Cup Serving – Approximate)

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on added ingredients like butter or sugar.