Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp sugar, optional
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil, optional

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over a medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook for 6-8 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring so it does not burn.
4. Stir in the tomato purée and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper and sugar if the tomatoes taste sharp.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Mash the sauce with a spoon for a rustic texture or blend until smooth.
8. Stir in fresh basil just before serving, if using.

Serving suggestions

• Toss with spaghetti, penne or gnocchi and finish with grated Parmesan.
• Use as a pizza base, meatball sauce or spoon over grilled vegetables.

Storage & reheating

Cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat until piping hot, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is not yet available for this recipe. Values vary with portion size and exact ingredients — we will add verified figures here soon.

Frequently asked questions