Rustic Tomato Sauce
Rustic Tomato Sauce is a simple, flavorful sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for various dishes. The rustic texture comes from leaving the tomatoes partially crushed, giving it a homemade, hearty feel. Ideal for anyone craving authentic, comforting Italian flavors.
Equipment
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Can opener
- Measuring spoons
- Chopping knife for vegetables
- Ladle (for serving)
- Strainer (optional for smooth texture)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 ounces whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 5 sprigs fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil leaves
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for some heat
- 10 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh basil leaves chopped (for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for additional heat
- 8 medium carrots finely diced
- 3 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the finely diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften.
- Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook. Add the fresh oregano, thyme, basil leaves, bay leaves, and sugar. Stir to combine. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 40 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- After the sauce has simmered, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for desired heat.
- Spoon the sauce into bowls or serve over your favorite pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves. Optionally, drizzle with more olive oil or sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Notes
Feel free to customize the sauce according to your tastes. You can make it as smooth or chunky as you prefer, and adjusting the seasoning allows you to make it your own.
The key to a great rustic tomato sauce is letting it simmer and letting all the flavors blend together.