Make Spaghetti Sauce With Fresh Tomatoes
Spaghetti sauce is a classic Italian dish that can be made in a variety of ways. While you can use canned tomatoes to make the sauce, using fresh tomatoes can take your sauce to the next level. Making spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes is a great way to get the most out of your garden harvest or farmers market finds. In this article, we will go over everything you need to know to make delicious spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes.
What You Will Need
Before we get started, let's go over the ingredients you will need:
- 10-12 fresh tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
You can also add other spices and herbs to taste, such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves.
Preparing the Tomatoes
The first step in making spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes is to prepare the tomatoes. Start by washing the tomatoes and removing the stems. Then, cut the tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds and pulp. You can do this by running your fingers along the inside of the tomato and scooping out the seeds and pulp.
Making the Sauce
Once you have prepared the tomatoes, it's time to make the sauce. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the prepared tomatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil and stir to combine. If you are using red wine, add it to the pot as well.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let the sauce simmer, the more flavorful it will become.
Cooking the Spaghetti
While the sauce is cooking, it's time to prepare the spaghetti. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt to the water and stir. Add the spaghetti to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the spaghetti sauce to the pot and stir to combine. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Conclusion
Making spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to find the perfect flavor for your sauce. Happy cooking!