Learn how to make a delicious and authentic Italian pasta sauce from scratch using fresh ingredients. This recipe is easy to follow and will add incredible flavor to your pasta dishes. The sauce simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with any type of pasta. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your homemade Italian pasta sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil and parsley.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Italian pasta sauce over cooked pasta of your choice, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Interesting Facts
In Italy, pasta sauce is commonly referred to as 'sugo'.
Adding a pinch of sugar to the sauce helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Simmering the sauce for a longer period of time enhances the flavors and gives it a rich taste.
Using fresh herbs elevates the taste of the sauce and adds a burst of freshness.
Homemade pasta sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for future use.