Delight in the rich, robust flavors of homemade Roasted Tomato Pasta Sauce, a simple yet exquisite choice for anyone wanting to elevate their pasta night. Made from scratch with fresh Roma tomatoes, onions, and a whole head of garlic, all roasted to perfection, this sauce captures the essence of Italian cooking with a personal touch. Whether you’re a first-time cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises to impress with its depth of flavor and straightforward preparation. So grab your apron, ignite your oven, and prepare to transform simple ingredients into a pasta sauce that rivals any high-end restaurant offering.
Ingredients:
- 12 Roma tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 large onion, peeled and quartered
- 1 head garlic, top sliced off to expose cloves
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 to 1 cup water (adjust based on desired consistency)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- Freshly chopped Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme)
- A pinch of sugar (optional)
Equipment:
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Blender or food processor
- Large pot
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Place the halved Roma tomatoes, quartered onion, and head of garlic (with the top sliced off) on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the tomatoes and onions are soft and slightly charred.
- Blend the Sauce:
- Remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool for about 30 minutes.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and into a blender or food processor.
- Add the roasted tomatoes and onions.
- Blend the mixture, adding 1/2 to 1 cup of water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour the blended mixture into a large pot.
- Stir in the tomato paste, freshly chopped herbs, and a pinch of sugar if using.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs, if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve hot over your favorite pasta, use it as a base for pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
Tips:
- Enhancing Flavor: Consider adding a splash of red wine, a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar, or a bit of chili flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Storing: This sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions: This sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti, fettuccine, or even as a sauce in lasagnas and other baked pasta dishes.
