Simple Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 × 400g tins chopped tomatoes or 1kg of fresh tomatoes.
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Handful of fresh basil (optional)

Method

Heat the oil, then sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic, cook briefly. Stir in tomatoes and sugar. Simmer 20 minutes until thickened. Blend to the desired thickness, season and add basil if using.

Tip

  • Use fresh tomatoes in summer for extra flavour.
  • Blend smoothly for a silky finish.

Variations

  • Add chilli flakes for a spicy arrabbiata.
  • Stir in olives and capers for a puttanesca.

Storage

Fridge: 3–4 days in a glass-sealed container.

Freezer: Up to 3 months.

Reheat: Gently on the hob or in the microwave until hot.