Spaghetti Sauce Made With Real Tomatoes
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, then you're probably familiar with spaghetti sauce. This delicious sauce is typically made with tomatoes, herbs, and spices, and it's a staple in many households across the United States. But did you know that not all spaghetti sauce is created equal? In this article, we'll explore the benefits of using real tomatoes in your spaghetti sauce and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to make your own sauce from scratch.
The Benefits of Using Real Tomatoes
When it comes to making spaghetti sauce, many people opt for canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones. While canned tomatoes can certainly be convenient, there are several benefits to using fresh tomatoes instead.
Firstly, fresh tomatoes have a much brighter and fresher flavor than canned tomatoes. This is because canned tomatoes are typically cooked and then canned, which can result in a slightly duller flavor. Fresh tomatoes, on the other hand, are picked at the peak of ripeness and used immediately, resulting in a more vibrant flavor.
Secondly, fresh tomatoes are generally healthier than canned tomatoes. This is because canned tomatoes often contain added salt and preservatives, which can be detrimental to your health in large quantities. Fresh tomatoes, on the other hand, contain no added salt or preservatives and are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
How to Make Spaghetti Sauce with Real Tomatoes
Now that you know the benefits of using fresh tomatoes in your spaghetti sauce, let's get into how to make your own sauce from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 fresh tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions:
- Start by washing and chopping your tomatoes. You can leave the skin on or remove it if you prefer a smoother sauce.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Using an immersion blender or food processor, blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the sauce to the pan and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta and enjoy!
Conclusion
Making spaghetti sauce with real tomatoes is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this classic Italian dish. By using fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones, you can ensure that your sauce is packed with flavor and essential nutrients. Plus, making your own sauce from scratch is surprisingly easy and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. So why not give it a try?