Description
This Brick-Red Tomato Basil Simmer is an easy, family-friendly weeknight dinner sauce, offering rich flavor and a comforting aroma. It’s a versatile, budget-friendly meal solution that’s simple to make from scratch with smart ingredient swaps.
Ingredients
Scale
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 0.5 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 to 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- pinch of sugar (optional)
- splash of red wine (optional)
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large 10-inch skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant (ensure it does not brown).
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed and diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. If using, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of red wine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
- Finish with Basil: Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Notes
Choose good quality canned tomatoes for best flavor (San Marzano are excellent). Add fresh basil at the very end for maximum aroma and brightness. Use pre-minced garlic or frozen chopped onion for shortcuts. This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 g)
- Calories: 100 calories
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: easy dinner, weeknight meal, tomato sauce, basil, vegetarian, gluten-free, quick meal, family-friendly, budget-friendly