Classic Italian Pizza Sauce
This homemade pizza sauce captures the authentic flavors of Italy with its rich blend of herbs and tomatoes. Perfectly balanced and quick to make, this sauce rivals any store-bought version and enhances every slice of pizza. Developed during my time in a bustling pizza shop, this recipe has become a beloved staple for family movie nights or cozy dinners. It also serves as a delightful dipping sauce for freshly baked breadsticks. Prepare it in just minutes, and you’ll never want to go back to jarred sauces again!
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tomato Paste
1 (6 ounce can)
Garlic
1 (tablespoon, minced)
Oregano
1 (tablespoon, dried)
Basil
1 (tablespoon, dried)
Parsley
1 (tablespoon, dried)
Olive Oil
2 (tablespoons)
Salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Sugar
1 (tablespoon)
Water
3/4 (cup)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the tomato paste, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, olive oil, salt, and sugar.
2
Using a wire whisk, gradually add in the water while whisking continuously to achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to add more water to reach your desired thickness.
3
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed before using it on your pizza or as a dip for breadsticks.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of this pizza sauce?
This sauce features a rich blend of Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the savory depth of garlic.
Is this a cooked or no-cook pizza sauce?
This is a quick no-cook sauce. You simply whisk the ingredients together in a bowl, which helps preserve the bright tomato flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The preparation takes just a few minutes, making it much faster than many store-bought options or traditional simmered sauces.
Can I use this sauce for something other than pizza?
Yes, it serves as a delightful dipping sauce for freshly baked breadsticks and can even be used as a quick pasta sauce base.
What type of tomatoes are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a 6-ounce can of tomato paste as the base, which provides a concentrated and rich tomato flavor.
How do I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
You can adjust the consistency by gradually adding water. If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add more water than the suggested 3/4 cup.
Is this pizza sauce recipe vegan?
Yes, all ingredients including tomato paste, herbs, olive oil, and spices are plant-based, making this sauce vegan-friendly.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs?
Yes, though you should generally triple the amount of fresh herbs when substituting for dried to achieve the same flavor intensity.
How many pizzas will this recipe cover?
The recipe makes approximately 2 servings, which is typically enough for two medium-sized pizzas depending on how much sauce you prefer.
Why is sugar added to the sauce?
Sugar is added to balance the natural acidity of the tomato paste and the bitterness of the dried herbs.
What is the best way to mix the sauce?
Using a wire whisk is recommended to ensure the tomato paste and water combine into a completely smooth consistency.
How should I store leftover pizza sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze this homemade pizza sauce?
Yes, this sauce freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this sauce spicy?
Absolutely. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want to give the sauce some heat.
Do I need a blender for this recipe?
No blender is needed. A simple mixing bowl and a whisk are the only tools required.
What kind of oil is best for this sauce?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the most authentic Italian flavor profile.
Can I use garlic powder instead of minced garlic?
You can, but fresh minced garlic provides a much more vibrant and pungent flavor that defines the sauce.
Is this sauce better than store-bought?
Many find this homemade version superior because it lacks the preservatives and metallic taste often found in canned or jarred sauces.
Can I use this on a gluten-free pizza crust?
Yes, this sauce pairs perfectly with any type of pizza crust, including gluten-free or cauliflower crusts.
How much garlic is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of minced garlic, which provides a strong, savory punch.
Does the sauce need to sit before using?
While it can be used immediately, letting it sit for 15-30 minutes allows the dried herbs to hydrate and the flavors to meld.
What is the serving size for this sauce?
The recipe is designed for 2 servings, roughly half the total yield per pizza.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the balanced sweetness and familiar Italian herbs make it a favorite for children and families.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, the recipe scales perfectly. Simply double or triple all the measurements as needed.
What is the texture of the sauce?
The texture is smooth and spreadable, thanks to the combination of tomato paste and whisked water.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for sugar to provide the necessary balance of sweetness.
Was this recipe professionally developed?
Yes, it was developed based on experience in a busy pizza shop to ensure professional-grade flavor at home.
Does it contain any artificial colors?
No, the vibrant red color comes entirely from the natural tomato paste.
Can I use this as a base for marinara?
It can serve as a quick base, though you might want to sauté some onions and simmer it further for a traditional marinara texture.