This rich and flavorful red wine for tomato sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, ideal for pairing with pasta, pizza, or even as a base for stews.
The addition of dry red wine enhances the depth of the tomato sauce, giving it a luxurious taste. The combination of oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes infuses the sauce with Italian-inspired seasoning, while the sugar helps balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Simple to make, this red wine for tomato sauce elevates any dish it accompanies, providing a restaurant-quality experience at home.
If you’re wondering which red wine to choose for your next tomato sauce adventure, I’m here to guide you.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the best red wine for tomato sauce, how to make a delicious sauce from scratch, and everything else you need to know. Let’s dive into it!
How To Prepare Red Wine For Tomato Sauce?
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving (1/4 cup)
Yield: 4 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (preferably Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Chianti)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot with pasta, pizza, or any dish that needs a robust tomato sauce. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
1. Classic Spaghetti or Pasta
The most traditional way to serve red wine tomato sauce is over your favorite pasta. Whether it’s spaghetti, rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine, the sauce coats the noodles beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Top it off with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil for a classic Italian dinner.
2. Meatballs
What’s better than combining red wine tomato sauce with juicy, homemade meatballs? The richness of the sauce pairs wonderfully with the savory meatballs, creating a dish that’s sure to please any crowd. Serve with pasta, or go for a classic sub sandwich—perfect for lunch or dinner!
3. Pizza Topping
For a unique twist, use your red wine tomato sauce as the base sauce for pizza. It pairs particularly well with meat toppings like sausage or pepperoni, as well as veggies like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. The wine’s depth of flavor will add an extra layer of sophistication to your pizza.
4. Baked Ziti or Lasagna
Red wine tomato sauce is a great addition to any baked pasta dish like ziti or lasagna. Layer the sauce with cheese and pasta, then bake until bubbly and golden. The sauce will infuse the dish with incredible flavor, making it a memorable meal.
5. Grilled Chicken or Pork
If you’re looking for a low-carb or protein-focused dish, red wine tomato sauce makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken or pork. Serve the sauce on the side or spoon it over the top for a deliciously savory pairing.
How To Make Best Red Wine For Tomato Sauce Tastier?
1. Simmer Longer: Let the sauce cook on low heat for a longer period to allow the wine to reduce and intensify its flavor.
2. Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the taste by incorporating fresh basil, oregano, or thyme, giving the sauce a fragrant, herbaceous note.
3. A Touch of Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and wine, adding a rich, sweet depth.
4. Caramelize Onions: Slow-cook the onions until golden and sweet before adding the wine to give the sauce a richer, smoother flavor.
5. Finish with Butter: Stir in a knob of butter at the end of cooking for a silky texture and a velvety mouthfeel.
What Is The Best Red Wine To Use For Red Wine Sauce?
For red wine sauce, choose a dry red wine with rich flavors and moderate tannins, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah.
These wines contribute depth and complexity to the sauce. The wine should have enough body to withstand cooking but not overwhelm the dish.
Avoid wines that are too fruity or too tannic, as they can disrupt the sauce’s flavor. Opt for wines that you enjoy drinking for the best results in your sauce.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftover red wine for tomato sauce, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate the sauce for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months.
When reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or wine if needed to adjust the consistency. Always check for freshness before use.
More Tomato Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
Homemade Australian Tomato Sauce
Alfredo Sauce Mixed With Tomato Sauce – Italian Meals
White Wine Sauce With Tomatoes – A Flavorful Twist
Tomato Sauce Without Sugar Added – Healthy
Tomato-Free BBQ Sauce – Grill Master
Sauce Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of red wine for tomato ?
It’s best to use dry red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Chianti. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the sauce’s balance. A medium-bodied wine with good acidity works best for enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
How long can I store red wine tomato sauce?
You can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make the sauce without wine?
Yes, you can omit the wine and replace it with vegetable or chicken broth for added depth. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also help mimic the acidity and richness the wine provides.
Can I use the sauce for dishes other than pasta?
Absolutely! This red wine tomato sauce is great on pizza, in meatball subs, with chicken Parmesan, or even as a base for stews and soups.
How do I adjust the sauce’s acidity?
To reduce acidity, you can add a small amount of sugar, or incorporate a tablespoon of olive oil or butter for a smoother texture. Tasting and adjusting the seasoning is key.
Conclusion
This rich and savory red wine for tomato sauce is a versatile and easy-to-make addition to any kitchen.
Whether paired with pasta, pizza, or used as a base for various Italian dishes, its depth of flavor will elevate your meals to a new level of deliciousness.
A simple combination of ingredients, including dry red wine, herbs, and tomatoes, you can create a sauce that brings out the best in every dish.
This red wine for tomato sauce is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the comforting and mouthwatering flavors in every bite!
Red Wine For Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry red wine preferably Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Chianti
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot with pasta, pizza, or any dish that needs a robust tomato sauce. Enjoy!