Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful sauce that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Made with juicy ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of garlic, this sauce is light, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spooning over grilled chicken, or serving as a base for pizza, it’s a must-have recipe for your repertoire. Whether you’re using tomatoes straight from the garden or a local farmers’ market, this simple sauce lets the freshness of the ingredients shine.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened preferred)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel off the skins, remove the cores, and chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
- Sauté Garlic:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Sauce:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens. Use a spoon to mash larger chunks if desired.
- Season and Add Basil:
- Stir in the fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and add sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and use the sauce immediately over pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Alternatively, let it cool and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
