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Pizza Sauce from Scratch Recipe

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This Pizza Sauce from Scratch combines tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs for a rich, savory homemade sauce. It comes together in less than half an hour and is perfect for pizza, calzones, stromboli, and dipping.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar, optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Do not allow the garlic to brown.
  3. Add the crushed tomatoes or tomato puree and tomato paste. Stir until the tomato paste is completely incorporated.
  4. Add the oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
  5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  6. Cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors develop.
  7. Taste the sauce. If the tomatoes are particularly acidic, stir in the optional sugar a little at a time until the flavor is balanced.
  8. Remove the sauce from the heat once it reaches the desired consistency and allow it to cool slightly.
  9. For a completely smooth sauce, carefully blend with an immersion blender. Leave it unblended for a more rustic texture.
  10. Allow the sauce to cool before spreading it over prepared pizza dough.

Notes

  • Good-quality canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree provide consistent flavor and texture. San Marzano-style tomatoes can also be used.
  • For a spicier sauce, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a small pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • For stronger garlic flavor, add another fresh garlic clove or a small amount of garlic powder.
  • Add sugar or honey only after tasting the tomatoes, as their natural sweetness and acidity can vary.
  • For more herb flavor, increase the oregano and basil or stir fresh basil into the sauce near the end of cooking.
  • For a no-cook variation, combine the tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper and allow the mixture to rest before using.
  • Use approximately 1/2 cup of sauce for a medium pizza, adjusting according to the size and thickness of the crust.
  • Store cooled sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.
  • Freeze the sauce in small freezer-safe portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pizza-sauce-from-scratch-recipe/