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Best Bright Garlicky Roasted Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

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This bright garlicky roasted tomato basil sauce is simple enough for a Tuesday night pasta dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. Roasting whole garlic cloves alongside tomatoes transforms the flavor into a deep, caramelized sweetness that tastes fresh and bright.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes, drained (reserve 1/4 cup liquid)
  • 8 to 10 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Extra basil and olive oil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Drain the canned tomatoes in a colander for about 5 minutes. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the liquid.
  3. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the drained tomatoes in a single layer. Tuck the peeled garlic cloves in between the tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
  4. Roast on the middle rack for 35 to 40 minutes, until tomatoes are browned around the edges and garlic is soft and golden. Halfway through, shake the pan gently.
  5. Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes.
  6. Transfer the roasted tomatoes and garlic to a blender. Add the reserved tomato liquid, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend starting on low, then increasing to high, for 30 to 45 seconds until smooth.
  7. Add the fresh basil leaves and pulse 3 to 4 times until incorporated but still flecked with green.
  8. Pour the sauce into a large skillet or saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  9. Remove from heat. Serve immediately or let cool completely before storing.

Notes

Don’t crowd the pan if doubling the recipe—use two baking sheets. Peel garlic but leave whole. Watch the basil: pulse at the end to keep it bright. Taste as you go. The sauce thickens as it simmers. Make ahead for better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted tomato sauce, garlic sauce, basil sauce, homemade pasta sauce, easy tomato sauce, bright garlicky sauce

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