Description
A vibrant and fresh tomato-basil sauce made from simmered tomatoes and red bell peppers, enhanced with butter and fresh basil. This quick and easy sauce is perfect for pasta, dipping, or as a base for other dishes, offering a rich and smooth flavor with a fresh herb finish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 lbs. tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 4 red bell peppers, stemmed, seeded, and roughly chopped
Seasonings
- kosher salt
Other Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup, lightly packed, fresh basil leaves
Liquids
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Simmer Tomatoes and Peppers: Place the roughly chopped tomatoes and red bell peppers into a large saucepan or pot. Add 1 cup of water and season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Turn the heat to high and bring to a simmer, then reduce to medium-high heat. Stir every five minutes to prevent sticking and cook for approximately 20 minutes until the vegetables release their juices and start bubbling consistently.
- Cook Down Until Tender and Reduced: Continue cooking until the tomatoes and peppers are tender, nearly all the liquid has evaporated, and the sauce starts to stick slightly to the bottom of the pot. You can test readiness by dragging a wooden spoon or spatula across the pot bottom — the path should remain visible briefly. Cooking times may vary depending on tomato juiciness, so rely on this visual cue rather than the clock.
- Add Basil and Butter, Then Blend: Add the fresh basil leaves and butter to the pot and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender (allow it to cool first if using a blender) and blend until smooth and silky. Taste the sauce, then adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt starting with 1/2 teaspoon increments, and add freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
- Store or Serve: Use immediately as a flavorful fresh sauce for your dishes, or store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Alternatively, freeze for up to three months for convenient future use.
Notes
- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and sweetness in your sauce.
- The cooking time may vary depending on the moisture content of your tomatoes and peppers; watch for the visual cue when the sauce sticks slightly to the pan.
- If using a blender, allow the mixture to cool to avoid splattering and potential burns.
- Fresh basil is key for bright, fresh herbal notes; adjust the quantity to taste.
- Butter adds richness, but you can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Freeze sauce in portion-sized containers or ice cube trays for easy thawing and use.
