Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a sauce that bursts with fresh flavors? Look no further than this Quick and Fresh Basil Tomato Sauce! In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering Italian delight that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this vibrant sauce is the perfect companion for any dish. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a homemade sauce that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dice the fresh tomatoes into small, uniform cubes, ensuring they are ripe and free from blemishes.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife, creating small, even pieces to distribute flavor evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm and become slightly shimmery.
- Add minced garlic to the heated olive oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release its aromatic qualities.
- Carefully add diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and olive oil.
- Reduce heat to low-medium and let the tomatoes simmer, stirring occasionally, for approximately 10-12 minutes until they break down and form a slightly thickened sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in freshly chopped basil, allowing its vibrant flavor to infuse into the warm sauce.
- Let the sauce rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, select ripe, in-season tomatoes. Look for varieties like Roma or vine-ripened for a sweeter taste.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Always use fresh basil instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Add it at the end to preserve its aromatic qualities.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the tomatoes to simmer gently. This helps to release their natural sweetness and creates a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Serve with Style: This sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, but don’t hesitate to use it as a base for pizza or as a dip for crusty bread!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 157kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
