Looking for an easy and delicious pasta sauce? Look no further than this Fresh Tomato Pasta Sauce with Basil recipe. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is made with simple ingredients like vine tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil leaves. Learn how to make, store, and freeze it with our step-by-step guide.

Why this recipe works

Fresh tomato pasta sauce is a classic Italian recipe that has been enjoyed for centuries. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and freshness. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this sauce bursts with flavor thanks to ripe vine tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves. Plus, with easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a great recipe for anyone looking to try their hand at homemade pasta sauce.

What is Fresh Tomato Pasta Sauce?

Fresh tomato pasta sauce with basil is a simple and flavorful sauce made with vine-ripened tomatoes, garlic, onion, fresh basil leaves, and olive oil. The sauce is perfect for any type of pasta, from penne to rigatoni, and is a great way to use up ripe tomatoes when they’re in season.

Best ingredients for Fresh Tomato Pasta Sauce

The key to making delicious Fresh Tomato Pasta Sauce is using the best ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Vine-ripened tomatoes: These will give the sauce a bright, fresh flavor.
Garlic and onion: These add depth and sweetness to the sauce.
Fresh basil leaves: These add a herby, fragrant note to the sauce.
Olive oil: This helps to bring all the flavors together.

How to make Fresh Tomato Pasta Sauce

Making Fresh Tomato Pasta Sauce with Basil is easy! Here’s how:

Step 1: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.

Step 2: Cut tomatoes in half and transfer them to a large bowl. Cover with boiling water and let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Finely chop onion and garlic then sauté on a frying pan with olive oil until softened.

Step 4: Remove tomatoes from the water, peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and cut into smaller pieces. Add to the onion and garlic.

Step 5: Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Add salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar to taste.

Step 6: At the end of cooking the sauce, add fresh basil leaves.

Step 7: Blend the sauce with a hand blender or in a food processor until smooth. Transfer back into a pan. Stir in cooked pasta with a splash of pasta water. Simmer on medium heat until everything comes together.

Step 8: Serve with grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Storing and Freezing Tips

This fresh tomato pasta sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the sauce cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.

Top Tips for The Best Fresh Tomato Pasta

Use vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor.

Don’t overcook the tomatoes or the sauce will become too dry.

Add the basil leaves at the end of cooking for the best flavor.

Use a hand blender or food processor to create a smooth sauce.

FAQ

Do you have to peel tomatoes for fresh tomato pasta sauce?

Yes, peeling the tomatoes will give the sauce a smoother texture. To do this, simply cut an X on the bottom of each tomato or cut in half, blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes, and then remove the skin.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones in pasta sauce?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes for this recipe. Just make sure to drain off any excess liquid before using them.