Tomato sauce for pizza

Tomato Sauce Recipe for Pizza – A Perfect Base for Your Delights

Tomato sauce is an essential element in making a delicious pizza. This simple and quick tomato sauce recipe provides a flavorful base that will transform any pizza into a memorable culinary experience. Whether you choose to use it for a classic Margherita pizza or for an extravagant combination of toppings, this sauce will add a rich taste and perfect texture.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 500 ml of sauce (approximately 4-6 pizzas)

Ingredients:

- 500 g of fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes for an intense flavor)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, grated or crushed
- 2 tablespoons of dried thyme (or basil, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste (for a deeper flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

The Story of Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce for pizza has a long history, becoming a staple in global cuisine. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it is clear that tomatoes have been integrated into kitchens around the world due to their versatility and unmistakable taste. This sauce is not just a base for pizza, but also an essential ingredient in many dishes, such as pasta, lasagna, or even stews.

Steps for Preparing Tomato Sauce

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at hand. The onion should be finely chopped, and the garlic should be grated or crushed to release its aroma.

2. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, add the 4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This step is essential for developing a flavorful base, so don’t rush!

3. Adding the Tomatoes: Once the onion and garlic have softened, add the fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes). If using fresh tomatoes, you can peel them before adding, but it's not necessary. Mix well.

4. Seasoning the Sauce: Add the dried thyme (or basil), concentrated tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. This mix of herbs will give the sauce an unmistakable Mediterranean note.

5. Cooking the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for about 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should reduce and become thicker. Slow cooking allows the flavors to blend perfectly.

6. Cooling the Sauce: Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool. It’s important not to add it to the pizza dough before it’s completely cooled to avoid soggy crust.

Practical Tips

- Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: If you choose fresh tomatoes, make sure they are well-ripened to achieve a sweet and flavorful sauce. Canned tomatoes can provide an intense flavor, especially if you choose high-quality ones.
- Variability: You can experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or parsley, to give your sauce a personalized touch. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Storage: The sauce can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. I recommend dividing it into smaller portions and freezing it, so you always have a delicious pizza sauce on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use the sauce for pasta? Absolutely! This tomato sauce is wonderful for pasta as well, bringing an authentic taste to your dishes.
- What type of pizza pairs best with this sauce? Due to its versatility, this sauce is suitable for any type of pizza, from simple mozzarella ones to those with meats or vegetables.
- Is this sauce vegan? Yes, all the ingredients are vegan, making the sauce accessible for all food lovers.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete culinary experience, serve pizza with tomato sauce over a crispy crust, adding toppings like fresh mozzarella, basil, and a few drops of extra virgin olive oil. You can accompany this dish with a light green salad or a well-chosen red wine.

This tomato sauce for pizza is not just a recipe, but an invitation to explore new combinations and savor pleasant moments with loved ones. Whether you are cooking for yourself or for family and friends, each spoonful of this sauce will remind you of the joy of cooking at home. Discover the art of making perfect pizza with this tomato sauce, which will surely become your favorite!