Homemade Pizza Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like homemade pizza sauce, especially when it’s made with fresh, juicy tomatoes. The flavor is bright, vibrant, and a world apart from store-bought or canned versions. I remember the first time I made pizza sauce from scratch; it was a warm summer day, and my garden was overflowing with ripe tomatoes. The result was so delicious that it became a staple in my kitchen ever since. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or just want to elevate your homemade pizza game, this sauce will become your go-to. The best part? It’s simple, quick to make, and tastes even better than you’d expect.

Using fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fresh, summery touch to your pizza. Plus, you can easily adjust the herbs and spices to your taste, making the sauce your own. Let’s dive into how you can make this incredibly flavorful pizza sauce with fresh tomatoes.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Pizza Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes

Brief Description

This homemade pizza sauce is made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. It’s the perfect topping for your pizza, offering a rich, flavorful base without the use of canned ingredients. Simple, fresh, and delicious!

Ingredients List

• 5-6 large ripe tomatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for added richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes, but opt for high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. You can also substitute fresh herbs for dried ones if desired, adding them toward the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Peel and chop the tomatoes: Start by peeling your tomatoes. To do this easily, score an X on the bottom of each tomato, then blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Transfer them to an ice bath, and the skins will peel right off. After peeling, chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
2. Sauté the garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
4. Add tomato paste (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste at this point. It will add richness and depth to the sauce.
5. Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to adjust the consistency.
6. Balance the flavors: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance it out. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
7. Blend (optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunky sauce, you can skip this step.
8. Cool and store: Let the sauce cool before using it on your pizza. If you're making it ahead of time, store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This pizza sauce with fresh tomatoes is perfect for any type of pizza, from classic Margherita to pepperoni or veggie-loaded pies. Spread it on your pizza dough, top with your favorite ingredients, and bake to perfection. If you have leftover sauce, it also makes a great base for pasta dishes or as a dip for breadsticks.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (about 1/4 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 60
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg

Storage and Reheating

To store, allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of water to loosen it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?

Yes, while fresh tomatoes bring a bright, fresh flavor to this pizza sauce, canned tomatoes can also be used in a pinch. Opt for whole, peeled tomatoes like San Marzano for the best results.

Do I have to peel the tomatoes?

Peeling the tomatoes helps create a smoother sauce, but if you prefer a more rustic texture, you can skip this step.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Absolutely! This sauce freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

What type of pizza does this sauce work best with?

This pizza sauce is versatile and works with a variety of pizza styles. It pairs well with classic Margherita, veggie pizzas, meat lovers’ pizzas, and more. You can also use it as a dip for calzones, breadsticks, or in pasta dishes.

Conclusion

Making your own pizza sauce with fresh tomatoes is a simple and rewarding way to enhance your homemade pizza. The freshness of the tomatoes, combined with garlic and herbs, creates a sauce that bursts with flavor. Whether you're using tomatoes from your garden or the farmers' market, this recipe brings out the best of them. Next time you're planning a pizza night, skip the store-bought sauce and give this fresh tomato pizza sauce a try.

If you’ve tried this recipe, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! Be sure to follow my blog for more homemade sauce recipes and pizza inspiration.