Creating your own pizza sauce from tomato paste is an easy and quick way to achieve a rich, flavorful base for your pizza.
This recipe will guide you through making a delicious pizza sauce that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive in and make a sauce that will elevate your homemade pizza to restaurant-quality!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Preparation: 5 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
This recipe is suitable for making enough sauce for 2 large pizzas and is of easy difficulty.
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For a vegan version:
- This recipe is naturally vegan!
For a gluten-free version:
- Ensure all spices and additional ingredients are gluten-free
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the tomato paste and water, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the salt, sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before spreading it on your pizza dough.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomato paste is high in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
- Low in Calories: This homemade sauce is low in calories compared to store-bought varieties.
- Natural Ingredients: Free from preservatives and additives, ensuring a healthier option for your pizza.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
To make your pizza sauce even more delicious, consider the following additions or upgrades:
- Add a splash of red wine: For a deeper, more complex flavor, add a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers.
- Incorporate fresh herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.
- Use roasted garlic: Replace regular garlic with roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
- Add a pinch of sugar: If your tomatoes are particularly acidic, a pinch of sugar can balance the flavors.
- Include parmesan cheese: Stir in a tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese for added richness.
Questions and Answers
Can I use this sauce for other dishes?
Yes, this sauce works well for pasta, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or in lasagna.
How do I store leftover pizza sauce?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
What if I don’t have all the spices?
You can use Italian seasoning as a substitute for the individual spices.
Can I make a larger batch?
Absolutely, just double or triple the ingredients accordingly.
What type of tomato paste should I use?
Use plain tomato paste without added spices or salt for the best control over the final flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the garlic for extra flavor.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce for a longer period to reduce it further, or add less water if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of paste?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve the right consistency.
Is this sauce kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild and flavorful, but you can omit the red pepper flakes if your kids are sensitive to spice.
Encourage Sharing
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious homemade pizza sauce from tomato paste! If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it on social media and spread the joy with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
