Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a sauce that’s bursting with flavor? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our "My Favorite Tomato Sauce with Onions and Orange." This vibrant sauce combines the rich taste of crushed tomatoes with the zesty brightness of orange, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with fresh ingredients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade sauce that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the orange, peeling the garlic, and chopping the onion into fine, uniform pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated with oil.
- Add chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic flavors without browning.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Zest the entire orange directly into the sauce, then squeeze its juice, adding both zest and juice to enhance the sauce's complexity.
- Sprinkle dried oregano into the sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring a balance of citrus, herb, and tomato flavors.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce rest for 5 minutes before serving over pasta or your preferred dish.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the onions and mince the garlic ahead of time. You can even zest and juice the orange in advance to streamline your cooking process.
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice if you can find them!
- Adjust the Citrus: If you prefer a more pronounced orange flavor, feel free to add more zest or juice. Just be sure to taste as you go!
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer longer if you have the time. This will deepen the flavors and create a more robust sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: This sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta, but try it on gnocchi or as a base for a homemade pizza for a delightful twist.
- Storage: Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Just reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
