Spaghetti Sauce Tomato Paste Diced Tomatoes
Nothing beats the taste of homemade spaghetti sauce. The combination of tomato paste and diced tomatoes creates a rich, flavorful base that is perfect for any pasta dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect spaghetti sauce.
What You'll Need
Before we begin, let's gather the ingredients you'll need:
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes (28 oz each)
- 1 can of tomato paste (6 oz)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
Note: You can use fresh herbs if you have them available. Simply use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs.
Step 1: Saute the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and saute for 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Paste
Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir it into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the tomato paste has darkened in color and has a rich aroma.
Step 3: Add the Diced Tomatoes and Herbs
Next, add the 2 cans of diced tomatoes and all of the herbs to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add the Red Wine (Optional)
If you're using red wine, add it to the pot and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. The red wine will add richness and depth to the sauce.
Step 5: Blend the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is done, it's time to serve and enjoy! This recipe makes enough sauce for 4-6 servings of pasta. You can also freeze any leftovers for later use.
Conclusion
Making your own spaghetti sauce is a great way to add flavor and depth to your pasta dishes. By using tomato paste and diced tomatoes, you can create a rich, flavorful base that is perfect for any recipe. With this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to make the perfect spaghetti sauce every time!