San Marzano Tomato Sauce

A simple recipe with extraordinary flavor — perfect for holidays, weeknights, and everything in between.

If there’s one sauce that never lasts more than a day in my kitchen, it’s this one. Made with sweet, low-acid San Marzano tomatoes and just a handful of pantry staples, this sauce is proof that simplicity can be deeply satisfying. Whether it’s bubbling away on the stove during a holiday dinner or tossed with pasta on a busy Tuesday, it always feels like a little celebration.

🌋 Why San Marzano Tomatoes Are So Special
Grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their naturally sweet flavor, low acidity, and thick flesh with few seeds. They’re the kind of tomato that doesn’t need much fuss — just a little olive oil, garlic, and time to shine. Whether you use whole or crushed, the flavor is unmistakably rich and smooth.

🧾 Ingredients

• 2 cans (28 oz each) San Marzano tomatoes

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp sugar (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¼ cup fresh basil (optional)

• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Base
   Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and dried basil, and sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.

2. Add the Tomatoes
   Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes. Crush them with a spoon, or blend for a smoother texture. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Season & Simmer
   Add salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For an extra-smooth consistency, you can blend the sauce again at the end.

4. Finish with Fresh Basil & Parmesan
   Stir in fresh basil for a fresh, aromatic note. If serving right away, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Pasta: Perfect with spaghetti, penne, or ravioli

• Pizza: Use as a flavorful base

• Lasagna: Layer with ricotta and mozzarella

• Meatballs or Sausage: Spoon generously on top

• Dipping Sauce: Serve with garlic bread or grilled veggies

🧊 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months

• Reheat: Add a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce when warming

💬 Final Thoughts
This sauce is more than just a recipe — it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, fills the kitchen with warmth, and turns simple meals into something memorable. Once you’ve made it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in my home — not just for holidays, but all year long.