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Quick Fresh Tomato Sauce

This rapid tomato sauce is made by simmering ripe tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and seasonings, resulting in a vibrant, chunky sauce with a bright and tangy flavor. The sauce maintains a slightly thick yet sauce-like consistency with visible pieces of tomato, perfect for serving over pasta or as a topping.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups ripe tomatoes or canned whole peeled tomatoes chopped if fresh
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pinch sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • fresh basil leaves to taste basil roughly chopped

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and smells fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until it turns just golden and releases a savory aroma.
  3. Pour in your chopped fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes with their juices, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down slightly and the sauce thickens just a bit.
  5. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired, tasting and adjusting seasonings as the sauce develops.
  6. Stir in freshly chopped basil leaves, letting their fragrant oils meld into the sauce for about 1 minute.
  7. Remove the sauce from heat; it should be bright, chunky, and full of fresh tomato flavors with a slightly glossy surface.

Notes

For best color and flavor, use ripe tomatoes during peak season. If using canned, opt for high-quality peeled tomatoes for a fresher taste. Feel free to adjust garlic and basil quantities to your preference.