There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own pizza sauce at home. I still remember the first time I did it; I was a teenager, standing in the kitchen with my siblings, armed with a can of tomatoes and the ambition to impress our parents with homemade pizzas. The aroma that filled the air as we simmered the sauce was like magic. Fast forward to today, it’s a family tradition that never gets old.
What I love about this homemade pizza sauce recipe is not just how simple it is, but also how adaptable! You can make it as fresh and vibrant as you want or add your personal twist with spices. It’s a game-changer and makes any pizza feel like a restaurant-quality masterpiece right in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, grab those tomatoes, and let’s get saucing!
What’s in Homemade Pizza Sauce?
Crushed Tomatoes: The star of the show! I usually use canned crushed tomatoes because they’re easy, but if you’re feeling ambitious and have fresh tomatoes on hand, feel free to chop them up—just remember to blanch them for a smoother sauce.
Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil brings richness to the sauce. I prefer the fruity flavor of a quality brand like California Olive Ranch. It really enhances the overall taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential! It adds that aromatic layer that makes the sauce pop. If you’re a garlic lover (like me!), feel free to toss in a little extra.
Onion Powder: While fresh onions can work, I love the convenience and uniformity of onion powder for this recipe. Plus, it won’t make you tear up while you’re cooking!
Dried Oregano: This herb gives your sauce that classic Italian flavor. I like to use a good quality product, like Simply Organic, because it’s potent and fresh.
Sugar: Just a pinch helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Don’t skip this step—it makes a world of difference!
Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course! Seasoning is key to elevating the flavors and bringing everything together.
Is Homemade Pizza Sauce Good for You?
If you’re wondering about the health benefits of this sauce, I’m happy to report that it’s pretty wholesome!
Crushed Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, and lycopene, which is known for its antioxidant properties. This means you’re not just slathering on sauce; you’re actually nourishing your body.
Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean diets, it’s rich in healthy fats that can promote heart health. Just don’t overdo the amount; a little goes a long way.
The only downside? If you’re watching sodium intake, you might want to keep an eye on how much salt you add. But overall, this sauce is a great way to boost the nutritional value of your pizza!
Ingredients List
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe makes enough sauce for about 2 medium pizzas, or enough to freeze for a later date.
How to Make Homemade Pizza Sauce?
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic.
4. Stir in onion powder, dried oregano, sugar, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps meld those fabulous flavors together.
6. Once it’s nicely thickened, give it a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using it on your pizza dough!
Pizza Sauce Perfection Tips!
– **Storage:** This sauce keeps well in the fridge for about a week. You can also freeze it in portions if you want to have some ready when the pizza craving strikes.
– **Variations:** Love a little heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes! Feel like getting creative? Add fresh basil or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing.
– **Serving Suggestion:** This sauce is amazing not only on pizza but also as a dip for garlic bread or when drizzled over roasted veggies.
I hope you give this homemade pizza sauce a try! It’s a small step that elevates your pizza game from bland to grand! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your journey in the kitchen. Happy cooking!
