Rustic Herb Tomato Spaghetti Sauce

Name: Rustic Herb Tomato Spaghetti Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1/2 cup red wine; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 45 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're looking for a pasta sauce that feels like a warm hug, this Rustic Herb Tomato Spaghetti Sauce is for you. It's packed with fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect match for any cozy dinner night. Plus, it's easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you might already have at home.

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Ingredients for Rustic Herb Tomato Spaghetti Sauce

Olive oil is the foundation of our sauce, lending a smooth texture and subtle flavor. Onion adds a sweet depth when sautéed, perfectly complementing the tangy tomatoes. Garlic is a must for its pungent, earthy undertones. Fresh, ripe tomatoes provide the base for the sauce, bursting with natural sweetness and acidity. A bit of tomato paste enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce. Red wine adds complexity and depth, balancing the acidity. A touch of sugar rounds out the flavors, while salt and black pepper season it just right. Fresh basil and oregano bring vibrant herbal notes that make the sauce sing. If you like a kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

Tips & Tricks

If your sauce is too acidic, add a pinch more sugar to balance it out.
For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to purée it to your desired consistency.
Want a thicker sauce? Let it simmer uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta shape, from spaghetti to penne. For a heartier meal, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken. It's also wonderful as a base for homemade pizza or as a dipping sauce for garlic bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?: Yes, you can substitute with two cans of whole peeled tomatoes. Just make sure to crush them before adding.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for red wine?: You can use beef or vegetable broth in place of red wine for a similar depth of flavor.
How long can I store the sauce?: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Rustic Herb Tomato Spaghetti Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, add your chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about five minutes. You want it soft but not browned. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute until fragrant.

Now, toss in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir these together, making sure everything is well combined. Pour in the red wine and increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins as the flavors start melding together.

It's time to season the sauce. Add the sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you're using them. Stir everything well, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finally, stir in the fresh basil and oregano. Let them cook for another five minutes to release their flavors into the sauce. Now your sauce is ready to enjoy! You can use it immediately over cooked pasta or let it cool before storing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and simple to prepare, even for busy weeknights.
Rich in natural flavors, thanks to fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes.
Versatile enough to complement various pasta dishes or even as a pizza sauce.
Customizable heat level with optional red pepper flakes.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped

1/4 cup tomato paste

1/2 cup red wine

1 tbsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well.

5. Pour in red wine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Add sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

7. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.