Name: Pizza Sauce Recipe: Rich and Flavorful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp sugar (optional); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper (to taste); Optional: Fresh basil; Suggested Pairings: Pizza dough (red wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Pizza Sauce is the heart of any great homemade pizza, perfect for pizza nights, family gatherings, or casual dinners. This vibrant, tangy sauce combines crushed tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs to create a rich, flavorful base that elevates any pizza. Presented in a white ceramic bowl or jar, optionally garnished with fresh basil leaves, this Pizza Sauce offers a colorful, inviting aesthetic that complements the rustic charm of homemade pizza. This recipe delivers a classic Italian-style sauce, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a versatile, authentic topping that brings pizzeria quality to their kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Sauce:

2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Suggested Accompaniments: Homemade or store-bought pizza dough, mozzarella cheese
Suggested Pairings: Red wine (Sangiovese), sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl or jar
Suggested Equipment: Medium saucepan, wooden spoon, blender, or immersion blender (optional)

Step-by-Step Process

Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, onion powder, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.
Taste and Adjust: Sample the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or additional sugar to achieve a balanced flavor, acidity, and savoriness.
Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree briefly. Skip this step for a chunkier sauce.
Cool and Serve: Let the sauce cool slightly before using it on pizza. Serve in a white ceramic bowl or jar, garnished with fresh basil. Pair with pizza dough and mozzarella for pizza nights, or serve with red wine or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Pizza Sauce

Use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes (e.g., San Marzano) for a rich, authentic flavor; avoid pre-seasoned varieties to control taste.
Cook garlic briefly to avoid bitterness; watch closely to prevent burning.
Taste before simmering to adjust sweetness (sugar) or spice (red pepper flakes) for a personalized flavor.
Simmer gently to deepen flavors without reducing the sauce too much; it should spread easily on the dough.
Blend only if a smooth texture is desired; a chunkier sauce adds rustic appeal.
Add fresh herbs like basil at the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor.
Make ahead for better flavor; the sauce deepens after a day in the fridge.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic bowl or jar, garnished with fresh basil for a vibrant, Italian-inspired look.

Variations and Customization

Vegan Pizza Sauce: Naturally vegan; ensure sugar is vegan-friendly (some sugars use bone char).
Low-Sodium Pizza Sauce: Use low-sodium tomatoes and reduce added salt; taste careful to balance flavors.
Spicy Pizza Sauce: Increase red pepper flakes to 1/2 tsp or add 1/4 tsp cayenne for a bolder kick.
Herb-Infused Pizza Sauce: Add 1 tbsp fresh chopped basil or 1 tsp fresh rosemary during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Roasted Garlic Pizza Sauce: Replace raw garlic with 4 cloves of roasted garlic for a sweeter, mellower flavor.
Chunky Vegetable Pizza Sauce: Add 1/4 cup finely diced onions or bell peppers with garlic for extra texture.
Sweet Pizza Sauce: Increase sugar to 1 tsp or add 1 tbsp tomato paste for a richer, sweeter profile.
Creamy Pizza Sauce: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream or vegan cream after simmering for a luxurious twist.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 1 week; stir before using.
Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers or freezer bags; thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if too thick.
Use as a pizza base, dipping sauce for breadsticks, or marinade for grilled vegetables.
Pair with classic pizza toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, or veggies for a complete meal.
Present in a white ceramic bowl or jar with fresh basil for an inviting, rustic charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1/4 cup each):

Calories: 60 kcal
Total Fat: 3.5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 15% Daily Value
Calcium: 2% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. Moderate in sodium; try low-sodium versions. Pair with vegetables for added nutrients.

Conclusion

This Pizza Sauce recipe offers a rich, flavorful base, perfect for any pizza night, transforming simple ingredients into an Italian classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The tangy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and optional basil garnish delight every bite of pizza. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its authentic, versatile appeal.