Roasting tomatoes for sauce is such a fantastic, easy way to bring out their natural sweetness and intensify the flavor without the mess! Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method, plus some extra tips to get the best flavor for various types of sauces.
Roasted Tomato Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- Fresh tomatoes (about 3-4 lbs, or adjust depending on how much sauce you want)
- Lemon juice (for acidity, especially if canning)
- Salt (to taste)
- Olive oil (optional, for roasting)
- Spices and herbs (optional: basil, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, black pepper)
Method
- Prepare the Tomatoes
- Wash and quarter the tomatoes. Remove the top core to avoid bitterness.
- Place them on a baking sheet, skin side up. You can drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt for extra flavor if you like.
- Roast
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-45 minutes. The tomatoes are ready when the skins are peeling back, and there’s some browning on the edges (this adds a delicious, caramelized flavor).
- Puree
- Allow the tomatoes to cool slightly, then puree them in batches using a blender or food processor. Include the skins and seeds for a thicker, rustic sauce, or strain if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Cook Down
- Pour the puree into a roasting pan, large pot, or slow cooker. Add lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon per pint if canning) and salt to taste.
- Add any spices and herbs you want (basil and oregano for pizza sauce, garlic and red pepper flakes for pasta sauce).
- Simmer the sauce to your preferred thickness. For a thicker pizza sauce, let it cook for a few hours until it reaches a paste-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve or Store
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or follow proper canning procedures.
Tips for Different Sauces
- Pasta Sauce: Add fresh basil, oregano, and a bit of sugar to balance the acidity. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 1-2 hours.
- Pizza Sauce: Cook until very thick (3+ hours). Add a pinch of garlic powder and oregano for that classic pizza flavor.
- Plain Tomato Sauce: Keep it simple with just lemon juice and salt. This base can be adapted for soups, stews, and more.
This method not only makes a flavorful sauce but also keeps the kitchen clean and saves time. Plus, roasting gives a richer depth of flavor that elevates any dish!