Homemade pasta sauce.

Homemade Pasta Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 12 Roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 onion
  • 1 head of garlic, peeled
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1/2-1 cup water
  • 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste
  • Freshly chopped Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, parsley)
  • A pinch of sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the Roma tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet. Slice the onion and add it to the baking sheet. Add the peeled garlic cloves as well.
  3. Season and Roast: Drizzle the tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
  4. Cool and Blend: Allow the roasted vegetables to cool for about 30 minutes. Transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of water, depending on your desired sauce consistency. Blend until smooth.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the blended mixture into a large pot. Stir in the can of tomato paste, freshly chopped Italian herbs, and a pinch of sugar.
  6. Simmer: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about an hour or more, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to let the flavors meld together.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Use the sauce immediately with your favorite pasta, or let it cool and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recipes Using Homemade Pasta Sauce

Classic Spaghetti

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 2 cups homemade pasta sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
  3. Add the homemade pasta sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 2 cups homemade pasta sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well.
  4. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of homemade pasta sauce.
  5. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by the ricotta mixture. Top with another layer of ziti and the remaining pasta sauce.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Eggplant Parmesan

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • Salt
  • 2 cups homemade pasta sauce
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
  3. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  5. In a baking dish, spread a layer of homemade pasta sauce. Add a layer of baked eggplant slices, followed by more pasta sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Meatball Subs

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups homemade pasta sauce
  • 4 sub rolls
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
  3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
  4. In a large saucepan, heat the homemade pasta sauce and add the cooked meatballs. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Slice the sub rolls and place meatballs and sauce inside. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Place the subs on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
  7. Serve hot.

Shakshuka

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups homemade pasta sauce
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4-6 large eggs
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and paprika. Cook for another minute.
  3. Pour in the homemade pasta sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
  5. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set to your liking, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Homemade Pizza

Ingredients:

  • 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup homemade pasta sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, etc.)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough instructions (usually around 475°F or 245°C).
  2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
  3. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
  4. Spread the homemade pasta sauce evenly over the dough.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  6. Add your favorite toppings.
  7. Bake according to the pizza dough instructions, usually for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Slice and serve hot.

Q&A

Q: Can I use a different type of tomato?

A: Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes like cherry or beefsteak tomatoes. Just adjust the roasting time as needed.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

A: You can substitute with dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.

Q: Can I freeze the sauce?

A: Absolutely! Allow the sauce to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?

A: To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer, allowing more liquid to evaporate. You can also add a bit more tomato paste.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

A: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Roast them along with the tomatoes, onion, and garlic.

Benefits of Homemade Pasta Sauce

Healthier Ingredients

Making your own pasta sauce allows you to choose high-quality, fresh ingredients. You can avoid preservatives, added sugars, and excessive sodium commonly found in store-bought sauces. This results in a healthier sauce that fits better into a balanced diet.

Fresh Flavor

Roasting fresh Roma tomatoes, onions, and garlic enhances their natural flavors, creating a rich and robust sauce. The caramelization that occurs during roasting adds depth and complexity to the taste, which is often missing in jarred sauces.

Customization

Homemade pasta sauce gives you complete control over the flavors and textures. You can adjust the seasoning, herbs, and consistency to suit your preferences. Whether you like your sauce spicy, sweet, or herby, you can make it exactly the way you want.

Cost-Effective

While high-quality jarred sauces can be expensive, making your own pasta sauce can be more economical, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk or when they are in season. This allows you to enjoy a gourmet-quality sauce without breaking the bank.

Nutrient-Rich

Fresh tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Fresh herbs add additional nutrients and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

No Added Sugars or Preservatives

By making your own sauce, you eliminate the hidden sugars and preservatives often found in commercial products. This is particularly beneficial for those managing diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health conditions that require a low-sugar and low-sodium diet.

Environmental Benefits

Making your own sauce reduces the need for packaging and transportation associated with store-bought products, which can have a significant environmental footprint. By choosing local and seasonal ingredients, you can further minimize your environmental impact.

Satisfaction and Learning

The process of making homemade pasta sauce can be satisfying and educational. It allows you to connect with your food, learn new cooking techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for the flavors and ingredients that go into your meals.


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