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A Sauce Worth Knowing

Simple Tomato Sauce

A dependable, unfussy sauce made from tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil.

Makes
Serves 4
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
25–30 minutes

Method

  1. 01

    Crush the tomatoes

    Pour the tomatoes and their juices into a bowl. Crush them by hand, leaving a little texture.

  2. 02

    Warm the garlic

    Heat the olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook gently until fragrant, without letting it brown.

  3. 03

    Simmer

    Add the tomatoes and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

  4. 04

    Finish

    Remove the garlic if desired. Tear in the basil, taste, and adjust the salt. Toss the sauce with hot pasta and a splash of pasta water.