San Marzano Tomato Sauce

 

 San Marzano Tomato Sauce

A simple recipe with extraordinary flavor — perfect for holidays, weeknights, and everything in between.

If there’s one sauce that never lasts more than a day in my kitchen, it’s this one. Made with sweet, low-acid San Marzano tomatoes and just a handful of pantry staples, this sauce is proof that simplicity can be deeply satisfying. Whether it’s bubbling away on the stove during a holiday dinner or tossed with pasta on a busy Tuesday, it always feels like a little celebration.

 Why San Marzano Tomatoes Are So Special

Grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their:

• Naturally sweet flavor
• Low acidity
• Thick flesh and few seeds

They’re the kind of tomato that doesn’t need much fuss — just a little olive oil, garlic, and time to shine. Whether you use whole or crushed, the flavor is unmistakably rich and smooth.

 Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
San Marzano tomatoes	2 cans (28 oz each)
Olive oil	3 tbsp
Garlic, minced	4 cloves
Onion, finely chopped	1 small
Dried oregano	1 tsp
Dried basil	1 tsp
Sugar (optional)	½ tsp
Salt & pepper	To taste
Fresh basil (optional)	¼ cup
Parmesan cheese (optional)	For garnish

Instructions:

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Base

• Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium.
• Add onion and cook until translucent (2–3 min).
• Stir in garlic, oregano, and dried basil. Sauté until fragrant (1–2 min).

2. Add the Tomatoes

• Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes.
• Crush with a spoon or blend for a smoother texture.
• Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Season & Simmer

• Add salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.
• Simmer on low for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• For a smoother sauce, blend again at the end.

4. Finish with Fresh Basil & Parmesan

• Stir in fresh basil for aroma.
• Garnish with grated Parmesan if serving immediately.

 Serving Suggestions

• Pasta: Toss with spaghetti, penne, or ravioli
• Pizza: Use as a flavorful base
• Lasagna: Layer with ricotta and mozzarella
• Meatballs or sausage: Spoon generously over top
• Dipping sauce: Serve with garlic bread or grilled veggies

 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Keeps for up to 1 week in an airtight container
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Add a splash of water or olive oil to revive

 Final Thoughts

This sauce is more than just a recipe — it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, fills the kitchen with warmth, and turns simple meals into something memorable. Once you’ve made it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in my home — not just for holidays, but all year long.