Classic Tomato Basil Sauce

  • Yield: 3 cups
  • Total: 1 hr 15 min
  • Prep: 15 min
  • Cook: 1 hr
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Ingredients

2 lbs. ripe plum tomatoes*

1 head garlic, cloves peeled and halved lengthwise

6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3/4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Cut an X in the bottom of each tomato and blanch in a large pot of boiling water for 10 seconds. Immediately transfer tomatoes with a slotted spoon to an ice bath to cool, then peel, seed and chop. Cook garlic in oil in a small, heavy pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until golden, 3 to 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, red pepper flakes, season with salt and pepper and add fresh basil. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. 

Cook’s Note

If ripe tomatoes are not available, substitute 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes in juice; season sauce with sugar if desired. (preferred brand: Organic Muir Glen)

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