Authentic Quick Italian Tomato Sauce for Pasta

Name: Authentic Quick Italian Tomato Sauce for Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 800 grams ripe tomatoes, crushed; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; Fresh basil leaves, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your pasta dishes with this authentic quick Italian tomato sauce that bursts with fresh flavors. Made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, this simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the taste of Italy in just minutes, making it a staple for any home cook.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2025-11-23T07:51:24.433Z

This quick Italian tomato sauce is a game changer for your pasta nights. Its simplicity showcases the natural flavors of the tomatoes and herbs.

A Taste of Italy in Your Home

When you think of authentic Italian cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. This sauce embodies the simplicity and quality of Italian cooking. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can bring a piece of Italy right into your kitchen. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this sauce is sure to elevate any pasta dish.

The secret to a great tomato sauce lies in using the best quality tomatoes. Ripe, in-season tomatoes enhance the flavor profile, allowing the sauce to shine on its own. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes is beautifully complemented by aromatic garlic and fragrant basil, making every bite a delightful experience.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity and speed. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious tomato sauce simmering on your stove, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. This sauce is not only quick to make but is also versatile; it can be paired with a variety of pasta shapes or even used as a base for a homemade pizza.

Pairing this sauce with your favorite pasta or adding protein such as grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables can transform it into a hearty meal. The ease of preparation means you can enjoy authentic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for both experienced cooks and beginners.

Customizable Flavors

While this recipe offers a classic Italian tomato sauce, it also serves as a perfect base for customization. You can add red pepper flakes for some heat, or incorporate olives and capers for an olive oil-rich flavor profile. Experimenting with different herbs such as oregano or thyme can also give the sauce a unique twist, allowing you to tailor it to your family's taste preferences.

Additionally, the sauce freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can double or triple the recipe and store portions in the freezer, so you always have rich, homemade sauce on hand whenever you need a quick meal solution.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
800 grams ripe tomatoes, crushed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
Fresh basil leaves, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Stir well and let simmer for a few minutes.

Instructions

Heat the Oil

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Tomatoes

Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Sauce

Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Basil

Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with black pepper to taste. Serve over your favorite pasta.

Your sauce is ready to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This authentic quick Italian tomato sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served with various pasta types such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine. You may also consider serving it with gnocchi or polenta for a different texture. To enhance the dish, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprig of basil for an elegant touch.

For a lighter option, try serving the sauce over steamed vegetables or zoodles (zucchini noodles), making it a gluten-free and low-carb meal. Pair the dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

Storing your homemade tomato sauce is easy. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If you're freezing it, consider dividing the sauce into smaller portions for easy access later.

When you’re ready to enjoy the sauce again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce has thickened during storage, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Health Benefits

This tomato sauce is not just delicious; it's packed with nutritional benefits as well. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its heart health benefits. Incorporating fresh basil adds additional vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory properties to the sauce.

Another great aspect of this sauce is that it allows you to enjoy the benefits of homemade cooking without the preservatives found in store-bought sauces. By preparing your own, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal for you and your family.