Basil and garlic tomato sauce recipe

The Delicious Basil and Garlic Tomato Sauce Recipe

Are you looking for a flavorful and versatile tomato sauce recipe to add to your culinary repertoire? Look no further than this mouthwatering basil and garlic tomato sauce! Bursting with fresh flavors and aromatic herbs, this sauce is perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, and so much more.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this basil and garlic tomato sauce incredibly delicious, but it also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Here are some of the key nutrients you can find in this sauce:

1. Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes help protect against certain types of cancer and promote heart health.
2. Basil: Packed with vitamin K, basil supports bone health and aids in blood clotting. It also contains essential oils that have antibacterial properties.
3. Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Olive Oil: A healthy source of monounsaturated fats, olive oil can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Ingredients

To whip up this delectable basil and garlic tomato sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:

1. 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes
2. 4 cloves of garlic
3. 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
4. 2 tablespoons of olive oil
5. Salt and pepper to taste

Processing Steps

Now, let's dive into the step-by-step process of preparing this delicious sauce:

1. Step 1: Start by blanching the tomatoes. Score the bottom of each tomato with a small "X" and place them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove them and immediately transfer to an ice bath. Peel off the skins and dice the tomatoes.
2. Step 2: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
4. Step 4: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly. Transfer it to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend it until smooth.

Tips and Recommendations

To make the most out of this basil and garlic tomato sauce, here are some tips and recommendations:

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze the sauce in small portions to easily add flavor to future meals.
- Use this sauce as a base for a variety of dishes, such as pasta, pizzas, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
- Customize the sauce by adding other herbs and spices, such as oregano or crushed red pepper flakes, to suit your taste preferences.
- When serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

Shopping List:

- 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper