Are you tired of searching for the perfect pizza sauce at the store? Fear not; I share the recipe for the best Italian pizza sauce. This sauce is the key to achieving the authentic taste of Italian pizzas at home. It can slather on pizza bread, bagel pizza, pizza bases, buns, or sourdough pizza.
Add your favorite toppings and mozzarella, and then either grill it in the oven or roast it on a pan to create a delicious snack, breakfast item, weekend brunch, or a quick lunch box meal for your kids. This recipe lets you say goodbye to store-bought sauces and enjoy restaurant-quality pizza at home.
Freezing Italian Sauce
If you intend to store it for 3-4 days, transfer the pizza sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze it. It should maintain its quality for approximately a month in the freezer, but it’s advisable to utilize it before reaching that point.
Italian Pizza Sauce Recipe
This homemade Italian Pizza Sauce is an authentic family recipe that’s both quick and delicious. It’s a fantastic alternative to store-bought sauce and uses simple ingredients to create rich flavor. Check out my Italian cake recipe to add more Italian dishes to your recipe book.
Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1-2 large cloves of garlic, minced
- One can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- One tablespoon of fresh or dried oregano
- One tablespoon of fresh basil
Instructions
- Heat 1-2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a medium-sized pot.
- Add diced onions, peppers, and sauté for 5-7 minutes to soften. If they begin to fry, add a small amount of water to steam them without browning.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for approximately 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- You can choose to puree the sauce or leave it chunky, depending on your preference. Enjoy!
Authentic Italian Pizza Sauce – Ingredient Swaps
While these substitutions may not align with traditional Italian practices, they can add exciting variations to your pizza sauce:
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to your pizza sauce for a spicy kick into the Italian pizza sauce.
- Exercise Caution: Avoid incorporating garlic salt, “Italian seasoning,” or sugar into your pizza sauce, as these additions might not align with authentic Italian flavors.
- Tomato Matters: Steer clear of substituting tomato paste for tomato puree or canned tomatoes, as it may negatively impact the sauce’s texture and taste.
- Cherry Tomato Option: If San Marzano tomatoes aren’t available, canned cherry tomatoes can be a suitable alternative.
- Texture Experiment: Experiment with your sauce’s texture by making half-chunky and half-smooth versions. Compare to discover your personal preference!
- Basil vs. Oregano: If fresh basil is unavailable, dried oregano is a suitable substitute for dried basil.
Wrapping Up
Crafting your Italian pizza sauce opens the door to flavors and customization. With its simple yet authentic ingredients, this homemade sauce elevates your homemade pizzas to a new level. Whether you prefer it spicy, chunky, or smooth, this recipe allows you to tailor your pizza sauce to your liking, making each slice a delightful culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the key to achieving authentic Italian pizza sauce flavor?
Authentic Italian pizza sauce relies on simplicity and quality ingredients. Focus on fresh tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil for the most authentic flavor.
What are some creative ways to use leftover pizza sauce?
Leftover Italian pizza sauce can be utilized as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, a base for pasta dishes, or a flavorful addition to homemade soups or stews. It’s a versatile ingredient with many possibilities.
Is this pizza sauce suitable for all types of pizzas?
This versatile Italian pizza sauce complements various pizza styles, including classic Margherita, pepperoni, vegetarian, and more. It’s a versatile sauce that pairs well with many toppings.
