Spicy sauce for pizza

Spicy Pizza Sauce - A Homemade Delight

Total preparation time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a freshly baked pizza topped with a delicious sauce that complements its flavor? Spicy pizza sauce is an essential ingredient that can transform an ordinary pizza into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual evening with friends or as a surprise for family, this sauce is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s easy to make, and the ingredients are accessible and easy to find. Let’s see how to prepare this spicy sauce!

Basic Ingredients

1. 1 can of peeled tomatoes (approximately 400g)
2. 1 teaspoon of dried basil
3. 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes (adjust to taste)
4. Salt (to taste)
5. Pepper (to taste)
6. 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Helpful Tips for Ingredients

- Choose high-quality peeled tomatoes, as they will influence the final flavor of the sauce. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice if you can find them.
- Extra virgin olive oil not only adds a rich flavor but also helps emulsify the sauce, providing a smoother texture.
- Basil is a classic ingredient, but you can experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the sauce.

Step-by-Step Sauce Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Open the can of peeled tomatoes and gently drain any excess juice if necessary.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the peeled tomatoes, olive oil, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Blend everything for a few seconds until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the consistency of the sauce to your preference - if you want a thicker sauce, blend it less.

3. Cooling the Sauce: Transfer the sauce to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld and intensify.

4. Using the Sauce: The sauce is ready to be used on pizza or to spread on the crust before adding other ingredients. You can also use this sauce as a dip for bruschetta or fresh vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a personal touch, try adding a crushed garlic clove to the sauce. Garlic will enhance the flavor and turn the sauce into an even more savory delight. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to peel and cook them a bit to reduce moisture and concentrate the flavors.

- How can I adjust the spice level?
For a spicier sauce, add more chili flakes or even a finely chopped fresh chili. For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chili.

- How long does the sauce keep?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for later use.

Nutritional Information

One serving of sauce (approximately 50g) contains about 50 calories. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

Combining the Sauce with Other Dishes

This spicy pizza sauce pairs perfectly with a pizza topped with mozzarella and fresh basil. You can also use it as a base for a warm sandwich or lasagna, adding a touch of spice and flavor. For a drink to complement the meal, try a light craft beer or a light red wine to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Spicy pizza sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Experiment with the ingredients and customize it to your liking. So, get your ingredients ready and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!