Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this pizza sauce authentic New York-style?
It embodies the rich, tangy flavors found in NYC pizzerias, using a blend of tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a hint of sweetness.
Is this a cooked or no-cook pizza sauce?
This is a no-cook sauce recipe; you simply combine the ingredients and let them sit to allow the flavors to meld.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: diced tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, basil, oregano, sugar, garlic, and salt.
Should I use the juice from the canned diced tomatoes?
Yes, the instructions specify to combine the diced tomatoes along with their juice and the tomato paste to create a smooth base.
What is the purpose of adding tomato paste?
Tomato paste is used to thicken the sauce and provide a concentrated, deep tomato flavor.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
Yes, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped basil with 2 teaspoons of dried basil.
How much dried oregano is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried oregano.
Why is sugar added to the pizza sauce?
A hint of sugar (1 1/2 teaspoons) is added to provide a touch of sweetness and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
How much garlic should I use?
You should use between 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of freshly minced garlic depending on your preference.
Can I use kosher salt instead of regular salt?
Yes, if using kosher salt, use 1 1/2 teaspoons; otherwise, use 3/4 teaspoon of regular salt.
What kind of olive oil is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
How long should the sauce sit before using?
For best results, let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the herbal notes and seasonings to fully infuse.
Can I adjust the seasoning of the sauce?
Yes, you should taste the sauce after mixing and adjust the salt or herbs to suit your specific palate.
How long does this homemade sauce last in the refrigerator?
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Is this New York-style pizza sauce freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months in a suitable container.
How should I prepare frozen sauce for use?
You should bring the frozen sauce to room temperature before spreading it onto your pizza dough.
How many calories are in a serving of this sauce?
There are approximately 80 calories per serving of this sauce.
What is the fat content of the recipe?
The sauce contains 2 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in the sauce?
There are 16 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this pizza sauce contain any protein?
Yes, it contains 2 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
What size cans of tomatoes are needed?
You need one 14 1/2 ounce can of diced tomatoes and one 6 ounce can of tomato paste.
Can I use a blender for this sauce?
While the recipe suggests mixing in a bowl for texture, you could pulse it in a blender if you prefer a perfectly smooth consistency.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
The ingredients listed (tomatoes, paste, oil, herbs, spices) are naturally gluten-free.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include new york-style, homemade, Italian cooking, tomato sauce, and easy recipe.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, the simple mixing method makes it very easy to double or triple the ingredients for larger batches.
Does the sauce contain cholesterol?
Based on the nutritional information provided, this sauce contains 0mg of cholesterol.
What type of basil is preferred?
Freshly chopped basil is preferred for vibrant herbal notes, though dried basil is an acceptable substitute.
How is the sauce prepared?
Simply combine tomatoes, paste, oil, and seasonings in a bowl, stir thoroughly, and let rest.
Can I use this sauce for other dishes?
While designed for pizza, its rich tomato and herb profile makes it a great base for various Italian-inspired dishes.