Nonna Pia’s Tomato Sauce Making Masterpiece — a sauce that brings the kitchen to life with every simmer. 👵🍅🍝
When Nonna Pia makes her Tomato Sauce, it’s more than just a recipe — it’s a masterpiece. 👵🍅 From the first sizzle of garlic to the rich, tangy aroma filling the house, it’s a taste of tradition passed down through generations. Get ready to savor the love in every bite. Who’s ready for a homemade sauce like no other? 🍝💛
🍽 Nonna Pia’s Tomato Sauce Making Masterpiece
Servings: Makes about 6 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans of whole San Marzano tomatoes (or 10–12 ripe Roma tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes (if using fresh):
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score the bottoms of the tomatoes with an “X,” and then blanch them for 30 seconds. Transfer them to an ice water bath. Peel off the skins, then chop or crush the tomatoes by hand. Set aside. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. - Add the Tomatoes:
Add the whole peeled tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Use a spoon or potato masher to crush them gently. If using tomato paste, stir it in now. Add the sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine. - Simmer Slowly:
Lower the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and break up the tomatoes further as they cook down. Add a little water if the sauce gets too thick. - Finish the Sauce:
In the final 10 minutes, add the fresh basil and bay leaf. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving. - Serve:
Ladle the sauce over your favorite pasta, use it as a base for meatballs, or enjoy with fresh bread. Nonna’s tomato sauce is perfect for any dish that needs a little extra love!
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with a classic spaghetti, or try it with Nonna’s meatballs, lasagna, or eggplant parmigiana. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this sauce!
