Behind every great pasta dish is a great sauce, and CeliaÕs homemade tomato basil sauce is a recipe she swears by. Simple yet full of flavor, this sauce is rich, vibrant, and so much better than anything from a jar. ItÕs made with fresh ingredients, slow-simmered to perfection, and infused with loveÑturning any ordinary pasta into a restaurant-worthy meal. Whether used on spaghetti, lasagna, or as a pizza base, this sauce is a staple in CeliaÕs kitchen for good reason. Unlock more details about brazilian mounjaro recipe 3 ingredients.
Celia starts with ripe tomatoesÑfresh when theyÕre in season, canned San Marzano when theyÕre not. She sautés finely chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent and fragrant, then adds the tomatoes along with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of sugar to balance the acidity. A splash of red wine is optional but recommended; it deepens the flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
The sauce is left to simmer low and slow for at least 30Ð45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down into a thick, rich consistency. During this time, Celia adds torn fresh basil leaves, which infuse the sauce with a sweet, herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes. She also tosses in a small bay leaf or a sprinkle of dried oregano for extra complexity, removing them before serving.
To finish the sauce, Celia uses an immersion blender for a smoother texture, though she sometimes leaves it chunky for a rustic feel. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil stirred in at the end brings it all together, adding silkiness and richness. She often makes a big batch and freezes portions so she always has a homemade option ready for busy nights.
This tomato basil sauce is incredibly versatile. ItÕs a perfect match for pasta but also works wonderfully in casseroles, baked dishes, or served over grilled vegetables. Celia even uses it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks when entertaining guests.
What sets CeliaÕs sauce apart is the care she puts into every step. ItÕs not just about cookingÑitÕs about creating something that nourishes and delights. With its simple ingredients and timeless flavor, her tomato basil sauce is a recipe to treasure.
