Homemade tomato sauce (oven recipe)
This tomato sauce recipe is perfect for pasta, soups, or any dish requiring canned or pureed tomatoes.
4 cups
Calories: 49kcal
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the tomatoes and onion into large pieces or halves.
- Take a baking dish and place the basil in the center (if using). Cover the basil with a layer of onion and tomato.
- Add the garlic and drizzle with olive oil generously.
- Bake until the tomatoes and onions show a bit of char on the skin and there are a lot of juices in the baking dish.
- Peel the garlic and blend until smooth or to your desired consistency.
Notes
- If adding peeled garlic, hide it under the tomatoes. If adding unpeeled, let it roast with the rest of the ingredients.
- Cooling: It's important to let homemade tomato sauce cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent early spoilage due to condensation inside the container.
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Choosing the Right Container:
- Glass Jars: These are ideal for storing tomato sauce because they don't absorb flavors or odors. Ensure they're cleaned and sterilized.
- Plastic Containers: If using plastic, ensure it's food-safe and BPA-free. Tomato sauce is acidic, and you want to avoid chemicals leaching into your sauce.
- Vacuum-Sealed Bags: These are great for freezing and can save a lot of space.
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Refrigeration:
- If you plan to consume the tomato sauce within 5-7 days, refrigerating it is the way to go.
- Pour the cooled sauce into your chosen container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Seal the container tightly to prevent air (and potential contaminants) from getting in.
- Always use a clean spoon when serving to prevent introducing any contaminants.
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Freezing:
- For more extended storage, freezing homemade tomato sauce is an excellent option.
- Divide the sauce into portion-sized containers or vacuum-sealed bags. This way, you can thaw just the amount you need.
- Label each container or bag with the date. Homemade tomato sauce can be stored in the freezer for 4-6 months.
- When ready to use the sauce, transfer it to the refrigerator for thawing, ideally a day before you need it. You can use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker method.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup | Calories: 49kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 592mg | Potassium: 490mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1538IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg