Best 2 Classic Red Sauce Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

Indulge in the timeless flavors of Italy with our classic red sauce, a versatile culinary masterpiece that elevates any pasta dish to new heights. This rich and savory sauce, also known as salsa rossa, is a staple in Italian cuisine, gracing tables for generations. Its versatility extends beyond pasta, as it can be paired with meats, seafood, and vegetables, making it a delightful addition to a variety of dishes. In this comprehensive guide, we present two exceptional recipes for classic red sauce: a traditional version and a spicy rendition that adds a kick of heat. Each recipe is meticulously crafted to ensure an authentic Italian experience, using fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of this beloved sauce. Let's embark on a culinary journey and explore the secrets behind creating the perfect classic red sauce.

Let's cook with our recipes!

CLASSIC RED SAUCE



Classic Red Sauce image

Provided by Food Network

Time 55m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 red onion, medium-diced
3 cloves garlic, cut into chunks
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons torn fresh basil
1 pound penne or spaghetti, cooked until al dente

Steps:

  • Puree the tomatoes to a smooth, creamy consistency in a food processor or with an immersion blender. (If you like a more country feel, you can wait and break them up in the pan later with a wooden spoon.)
  • Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. When hot, add the onion and saute 5 to 6 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until you see the color start changing. If you'd like to make the sauce spicy, add the red pepper flakes.
  • Add the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer about 30 minutes. (If you did not puree the tomatoes, use a wooden spoon to break them into pieces while they cook.) Strive for balance in the consistency of the sauce: It has to be fluid, but it should not look overly wet. Add the basil and remove from the heat. Toss with just-cooked pasta.

CLASSIC RED SAUCE



Classic Red Sauce image

You only need five ingredients (not including salt!) to make our ultimate red sauce.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Quick & Easy Recipes

Time 35m

Yield Makes about 5 cups

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups finely chopped onion
Kosher salt
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
2 cans (each 28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes in juice, pureed in a blender or food processor

Steps:

  • Heat a straight-sided skillet over medium. Swirl in oil; add onion and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft and translucent, 7 to 9 minutes. Stir in garlic and red-pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds. Add tomatoes to skillet; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced and thickened slightly, about 20 minutes.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality tomatoes. Fresh, ripe tomatoes will give your sauce the best flavor. If you can't find fresh tomatoes, use canned whole tomatoes or tomato puree.
  • Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft and translucent. This will help to develop their flavor and prevent them from burning.
  • Add a variety of herbs and spices to your sauce. Oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary are all classic Italian herbs that pair well with tomatoes. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for extra flavor.
  • Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop and meld together. The longer you simmer the sauce, the better it will taste.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.

Conclusion:

Classic red sauce is a versatile and delicious sauce that can be used on a variety of dishes. It is perfect for pasta, pizza, and meatballs. It can also be used as a dipping sauce or marinade. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can make a classic red sauce that will impress your family and friends.

Related Topics