When I think about a flavorful sauce that can elevate a simple meal, my first thought jumps right to five minute tomato sauce. You can toss it over freshly cooked pasta for an Italian classic.
Or perhaps you want to use it to dress up your favorite roasted vegetables or serve it as a dip, paired with warm crusty bread.
Burgers would appreciate the zing this sauce adds too, or maybe a simple chicken breast could come to life when topped with it. The possibilities are endless!
What is Five Minute Tomato Sauce?
Five minute tomato sauce is a quick and easy recipe that turns canned tomatoes into a delightful sauce for various dishes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a vibrant sauce that tastes fresh and homemade.
It’s a favorite of busy cooks who still want delicious food without all the fuss. You might find yourself making this sauce on a regular basis once you taste its richness.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this sauce lies in its simplicity. Using quality canned tomatoes is a game changer. Believe me, they are great in the off-season when fresh tomatoes aren’t available. Combine that with several pantry staples, and you’ll have an incredible sauce in the time it takes to boil water for pasta.
The smoked paprika adds depth, while the chili flakes bring just enough heat. The olive oil contributes a lovely richness, creating a balanced flavor. Even better, it allows you to create a restaurant-quality sauce at home without any complicated techniques.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
You’ll want to gather a few simple ingredients for the five minute tomato sauce:
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1 28-ounce can whole peeled crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- Zest from one fresh lemon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons crushed chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
How to Make Five Minute Tomato Sauce
Let’s get started! It’s easier than you might think.
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add about two tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the minced garlic into the pan. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. You want to infuse the oil with that beautiful garlicky aroma.
Step 2: Introduce the Tomatoes
Next, grab your can of crushed tomatoes. Carefully pour it into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir gently to mix. This is where the magic begins. Let it bubble for a moment and watch the sauce start to form.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Now, it’s time to add the flavor. Sprinkle in the sea salt, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and dried oregano. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the spices. Let that simmer for another couple of minutes. You’ll see it thicken, and the flavors deepen wonderfully.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Lemon Zest
Turn off the heat and pour in the remaining olive oil. Add the lemon zest next. This will brighten up the sauce beautifully. Stir again to combine everything. The finished product should look vibrant and inviting.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Always taste your sauce before serving! Depending on your preference, you might want to add more salt or chili flakes for heat. Adjust to your liking.
Tips for Making the Best Sauce
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Go for whole peeled tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes. They have exceptional flavor.
- Skip the Can: When in season, feel free to substitute fresh tomatoes! Just peel and crush them.
- Let it Simmer a Bit Longer: If time allows, you can let it simmer on low for 10-15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can make for a delicious twist; add them towards the end of cooking for freshness.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Spice: Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your heat preference. More for the spicy lovers, less for the mild folks!
How to Store Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra sauce, no problem! Cool it to room temperature and transfer it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Alternatively, you can freeze it in portion-sized containers for months. This way, you always have a quick sauce on hand!
How Would I Recommend Serving Five Minute Tomato Sauce?
Here are four delectable suggestions:
- Over Pasta: Toss it with spaghetti or penne for a classic dish. The sauce coats the noodles beautifully and pairs excellently with grated Parmesan cheese.
- As a Pizza Base: Spread this sauce on a pizza crust before adding your favorite toppings. The smoky paprika is an unexpected twist that elevates your homemade pizza.
- With Grilled Chicken: Serve it alongside grilled chicken breasts. A drizzle of this sauce over the chicken will create a wholesome, wholesome meal.
- For Dipping Bread: Use it as a dipping sauce for warm breadsticks or crusty bread. A splash of olive oil on the side completes the experience.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
- Canned Tomatoes: If you don’t have a can of whole peeled tomatoes, diced tomatoes will work just as well. They may be a bit less smooth, but they’re perfect for a rustic touch.
- Garlic: If garlic isn’t on hand, consider garlic powder—about a teaspoon should do the trick; add it later to ensure the flavor is strong enough.
- Olive Oil: For a different flavor profile, feel free to use avocado oil or butter. Each will bring their own unique touch to the sauce.
- Smoked Paprika: If you only have regular paprika, you can use that in a pinch, but do add a dash of cumin for additional depth.
Conclusion
Five minute tomato sauce isn’t just a recipe; it’s a lifesaver in the kitchen. With its simplicity and flavor, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. The beauty lies not only in the speed of preparation but also in its versatility.
As a registered dietitian and enthusiastic food lover, I promise this sauce will delight your taste buds and make dinner a breeze. So grab your ingredients, whip up this sauce, and enjoy it over your favorite dishes. Your taste buds will thank you later!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Five Minute Tomato Sauce Recipe – Simple Easy Meals
You’ve had a long day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Yet, your stomach is growling, demanding satisfaction. Enter five minute tomato sauce. This sauce isn’t just quick to make; it’s an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
It’s versatile and can turn an ordinary dish into something special. Let’s dive deep into what makes this sauce work and how you can master it in no time.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
-
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add about two tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the minced garlic into the pan. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. You want to infuse the oil with that beautiful garlicky aroma.
Step 2: Introduce the Tomatoes
-
Next, grab your can of crushed tomatoes. Carefully pour it into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir gently to mix. This is where the magic begins. Let it bubble for a moment and watch the sauce start to form.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
-
Now, it’s time to add the flavor. Sprinkle in the sea salt, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and dried oregano. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the spices. Let that simmer for another couple of minutes. You'll see it thicken, and the flavors deepen wonderfully.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Lemon Zest
-
Turn off the heat and pour in the remaining olive oil. Add the lemon zest next. This will brighten up the sauce beautifully. Stir again to combine everything. The finished product should look vibrant and inviting.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
-
Always taste your sauce before serving! Depending on your preference, you might want to add more salt or chili flakes for heat. Adjust to your liking.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 61kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.9g8%
- Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
- Cholesterol 4mg2%
- Sodium 443mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 1g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Go for whole peeled tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes. They have exceptional flavor.
- Skip the Can: When in season, feel free to substitute fresh tomatoes! Just peel and crush them.
- Let it Simmer a Bit Longer: If time allows, you can let it simmer on low for 10-15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can make for a delicious twist; add them towards the end of cooking for freshness.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Spice: Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your heat preference. More for the spicy lovers, less for the mild folks!
