Wholesome Homemade Tomato Sauce for Pasta: A Burst of Fresh Flavor

**Wholesome Homemade Tomato Sauce for Pasta: A Burst of Fresh Flavor**

Get ready to elevate your pasta game with a deliciously healthy homemade tomato sauce that's as easy to make as it is delightful to taste. Say goodbye to store-bought jars loaded with preservatives and hello to a sauce that's brimming with the goodness of fresh ingredients. Let's dive into this scrumptiously simple recipe!

**Ingredients:**

- 6-8 ripe tomatoes (or 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes)

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Tomatoes:**

If using fresh tomatoes, score a small "X" on the bottom of each tomato. Place them in a pot of boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will make peeling them a breeze. Once cooled, peel the skins off, remove the cores, and roughly chop the tomatoes. If using canned tomatoes, skip this step and move on to the next.

2. **Sauté Aromatics:**

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. **Add Tomatoes and Simmer:**

Gently add the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pan, along with the dried basil and oregano. Give everything a good stir, then let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes. The tomatoes will break down and release their juices, creating a beautiful sauce.

4. **Blend and Season:**

Once the tomatoes have softened and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender (after it cools slightly) and blend until you achieve your desired consistency. Return the sauce to the pan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. **Final Touch and Serve:**

Before serving, give your sauce a final stir and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Chop some fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce just before serving.

6. **Pair with Pasta:**

Boil your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with a generous amount of your homemade tomato sauce. Ensure each strand is coated with the luscious goodness.

7. **Savor the Taste of Homemade Love:**

Plate your sauced pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a few extra fresh basil leaves. With each forkful, savor the burst of flavors that only comes from using wholesome ingredients and a touch of your culinary magic.

Enjoy the satisfaction of indulging in a nourishing tomato sauce that's easy on your taste buds and kind to your health. This recipe is a testament to the joy of crafting a meal that's both simple and scrumptious!