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Five Minute Tomato Sauce Recipe

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.
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Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 61
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 28 can -ounce 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

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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.

Notes

  1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Go for whole peeled tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes. They have exceptional flavor.
  2. Skip the Can: When in season, feel free to substitute fresh tomatoes! Just peel and crush them.
  3. Let it Simmer a Bit Longer: If time allows, you can let it simmer on low for 10-15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
  4. Experiment with Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can make for a delicious twist; add them towards the end of cooking for freshness.
  5. 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!