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Simple Roasted Tomato Sauce

This tomato sauce is made by blistering ripe tomatoes under high heat, which enhances their natural sweetness and smoky notes. The roasted tomatoes are then mashed into a rustic sauce with minimal pantry ingredients, resulting in a thick, vibrant, and slightly chunky final texture. It’s perfect as a flavorful topping for pasta or as a base for other Italian dishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes preferably heirloom or vine-ripened for best flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting and finishing
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar optional, for depth

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Blender or fork

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place whole ripe tomatoes on a baking sheet and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until they blister, soften, and some skins start to blacken, releasing a sweet, smoky aroma.
  2. Remove the tomatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly until safe to handle. Gently peel off any charred skins if desired, or crush the tomatoes with their skins intact for a rustic texture.
  3. Transfer the roasted tomatoes to a bowl or directly into a blender. Add the minced garlic, remaining olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend briefly until you reach your preferred consistency—chunky or slightly smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce into a skillet and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the balsamic vinegar if using, for depth and sweetness.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. The sauce should be vibrant, smoky, and full of tomato flavor with a slightly chunky or smooth texture, as per your preference.
  6. Serve the roasted tomato sauce hot over pasta, drizzled with a little extra olive oil and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the deep, smoky flavor that makes it a versatile and rustic dish.

Notes

For a smoother sauce, blend longer; for more texture, pulse briefly. You can also add fresh basil after blending for a fresh herbal note.