Yellow tomato sauce recipe is a golden, rich sauce made using fresh yellow tomatoes, butter, olive oil, garlic, onion, and thyme.
I made this yellow tomato sauce recipe after watching a rustic Italian cooking show where the chef used sun-ripened yellow tomatoes straight from the garden.
The color caught my eye first vibrant and sunny and the way it gently simmered down into something smooth and flavorful made me want to try it myself.
Inspired by that moment, I headed to the kitchen and recreated it. Now, I’m going to walk through exactly how I made this yellow tomato sauce recipe, step by step.
About This Recipe
This yellow tomato sauce recipe is a light, flavorful twist on classic tomato sauce, made with sweet, low-acid yellow tomatoes. Butter and olive oil create a rich base, while garlic, onion, and lemon thyme add depth and aroma.
The yellow tomato sauce recipe is naturally mellow and slightly sweet, making it perfect for pasta, seafood, or grilled vegetables. It’s a simple, elegant recipe that highlights fresh summer produce and can be prepared in under an hour.
Smooth and golden, it brings a burst of color and fresh flavor to your meals. Ideal for freezing, this yellow tomato sauce recipe is both versatile and easy to make at home.
How To Prepare Yellow Tomato Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Course: Main or Sauce
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Italian
- Calories (per serving): Approximately 120 calories (depending on serving size)
- Yield: About 2 cups of sauce
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smooth texture)
- Peeler (for tomatoes, if not blanching)
- Fine mesh sieve (optional, for extra smooth finish)
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 pounds (about 900g) yellow or golden tomatoes, peeled and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon thyme (or regular thyme)
- ½ cup water
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
How To Make Yellow Tomato Sauce Recipe
1. Prep the Tomatoes:
Start by peeling the yellow tomatoes. You can blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water to easily slip off the skins. Cut them in half and scoop out the seeds. Chop roughly.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the chopped yellow tomatoes, salt, and lemon thyme. Mix well and let everything cook down for about 5 minutes so the flavors start to blend.
4. Simmer Slowly:
Pour in ½ cup of water. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should break down and the mixture should start to thicken slightly.
5. Blend (Optional):
For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step or just mash gently with the back of a spoon.
6. Final Touches:
Taste the sauce and adjust the salt if needed. For a bright finish, sprinkle with flaky sea salt just before serving or using. The sauce can be used immediately or cooled and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Note:
This yellow tomato sauce recipe has a gentle sweetness and lower acidity compared to red tomato sauces, making it perfect for pairing with seafood, chicken, pasta, or even as a base for pizza.
If your tomatoes are very juicy, you can cook uncovered a bit longer to reduce and thicken the sauce further. For an extra twist, try adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
Why My Recipe Works
This yellow tomato sauce recipe works because it balances the natural sweetness of yellow tomatoes with savory ingredients like butter, garlic, and onion.
The slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and the yellow tomato sauce recipe to thicken without losing its bright, fresh character.
Using fresh thyme adds a subtle herbal note that complements the tomatoes without overpowering them. The combination of olive oil and butter creates a rich texture and depth.
Peeling and seeding the tomatoes ensures a smooth, clean sauce without bitterness or excess water, resulting in a sauce that’s flavorful, vibrant, and versatile.
How To Use Yellow Tomato Sauce
Yellow tomato sauce recipe is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. You can toss it with your favorite pasta for a fresh twist, use it as a pizza sauce for a vibrant alternative, or even drizzle it over roasted vegetables for added flavor.
It also makes a great base for soups and stews, or you can serve it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or grilled cheese.
The slightly sweet and tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes, making it an easy go-to sauce in your kitchen.
Tips And Variations
➤ Add More Vegetables: If you want to boost the nutritional value of your sauce, consider adding finely chopped carrots or bell peppers when sautéing the onions. These will add a touch of sweetness and more flavor.
➤ Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy sauces, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili pepper for heat.
➤ Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk once the sauce is done cooking. It’s a delicious way to elevate the sauce for a rich dish.
➤ Freezing the Sauce: This yellow tomato sauce freezes beautifully! Simply let it cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw and reheat.
Health Benefits
Yellow tomato sauce recipe offers several health benefits thanks to the nutritional profile of yellow tomatoes. Rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids like lutein, it supports eye health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
Yellow tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
Additionally, the sauce is low in calories and packed with fiber, aiding digestion and helping to maintain a healthy weight. The natural ingredients, like olive oil and herbs, further contribute to heart health and overall wellness.
Can I Use Yellow Tomatoes For Sauce?
Absolutely! Yellow tomatoes are a fantastic choice for making sauce. While they have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to traditional red tomatoes, they still have the perfect texture and juiciness for creating a delicious sauce.
The natural sweetness of yellow tomatoes can add a unique twist to your dishes, offering a subtle yet rich flavor that pairs beautifully with herbs and spices.
What Are Yellow Tomatoes Best For?
Yellow tomatoes are best for dishes where their mild, sweet flavor and vibrant color can shine. They are perfect for making sauces, especially if you prefer a smoother, less acidic taste.
Yellow tomatoes also work well in salads, salsas, and sandwiches, adding a fresh and subtle sweetness.
Their beautiful hue makes them a great choice for garnishes or as a topping on pizzas and bruschetta, bringing both flavor and visual appeal to your dishes.
Storage and Shelf Life
You can store your yellow tomato sauce recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before using. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for meal prep!
More Tomato Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
Authentic Sicilian Tomato Sauce
Rustic Tomato Sauce || Italian Cooking
Tomato And Coconut Milk Sauce: Flavorful Fusion
Tomato Aioli Sauce (Sun-Dried)
Tuscan Tomato Sauce || A Taste of Italy
Conclusion
This tasty and easy-to-make Yellow Tomato Sauce is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
After making it, you’ll enjoy a smooth, rich, and flavorful sauce that adds brightness to any dish. I hope this recipe has inspired you and helped you see how straightforward and rewarding homemade sauces can be.
With just a few steps, you can enjoy a delicious result that feels both gourmet and comforting. Give it a try and taste the difference!
Yellow Tomato Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for smooth texture)
- Peeler (for tomatoes, if not blanching)
- Fine mesh sieve (optional, for extra smooth finish)
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 pounds about 900g yellow or golden tomatoes, peeled and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon thyme or regular thyme
- ½ cup water
- Flaky sea salt to taste
Instructions
Prep the Tomatoes:
- Start by peeling the yellow tomatoes. You can blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water to easily slip off the skins. Cut them in half and scoop out the seeds. Chop roughly.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
- Stir in the chopped yellow tomatoes, salt, and lemon thyme. Mix well and let everything cook down for about 5 minutes so the flavors start to blend.
Simmer Slowly:
- Pour in ½ cup of water. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should break down and the mixture should start to thicken slightly.
Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step or just mash gently with the back of a spoon.
Final Touches:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the salt if needed. For a bright finish, sprinkle with flaky sea salt just before serving or using. The sauce can be used immediately or cooled and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.