Slow-Simmered San Marzano Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil
A deeply flavored tomato base made with slow-cooked San Marzano tomatoes and fresh herbs, perfect for coating pasta or as a base for baked dishes. This italian-inspired quick meals (vegetarian, dairy-free) ready in about 65 minutes blends can San Marzano tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, medium yellow onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 28 oz can San Marzano tomatoes
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Finely chop 1/2 medium yellow onion and mince 3 garlic cloves. Heat 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until shimmering.
- Step 2: Add onions and cook for 8-10 minutes until translucent and golden, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Pour in 28 oz can San Marzano tomatoes (with juice), breaking them up with a spoon. Stir in 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer gently for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Step 5: Remove from heat, stir in 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, and let sit for 10 minutes before using to meld flavors.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Slow-Simmered San Marzano Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil take to make?
Total time is about 65 minutes (15 min prep + 50 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Slow-Simmered San Marzano Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Slow-Simmered San Marzano Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Slow-Simmered San Marzano Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Slow-Simmered San Marzano Tomato Sauce with Fresh Basil vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, dairy-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
So flavorful and easy. The fresh basil at the end is key.
- ★★★★★
My kids actually asked for seconds. Will make again!
- ★★★★★
The San Marzano tomatoes really make a difference. Perfect for pasta.
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