Capture the essence of classic Italian cooking with this Tomato Sauce Naples Style, a simple yet vibrant recipe that highlights the deep, rich flavor of San Marzano tomatoes. This traditional Neapolitan sauce uses just a handful of fresh ingredients—extra virgin olive oil, garlic, basil, and a pinch of sea salt—to create a perfectly balanced, aromatic base for any pasta dish. Slow-simmered to enhance its natural sweetness, the sauce can be customized with a hint of sugar if desired and is ready in just 40 minutes. Ideal for spaghetti or as a versatile condiment, this authentic tomato sauce brings a taste of southern Italy to your kitchen. Perfect for meal prep or enjoying fresh, it’s a delicious and essential recipe for any home cook.
Peel and finely slice the garlic cloves.
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic to the oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it.
Pour the San Marzano tomatoes into the saucepan. Use a wooden spoon to break them up into smaller pieces.
Add the fine sea salt, ground black pepper, and sugar (if using) to the saucepan, and stir well.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and allow the sauce to cook uncovered for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly as it cooks.
Add the fresh basil leaves to the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir them in to release their aroma and flavor.
Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool slightly before using. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or pass the sauce through a food mill.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately with pasta or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Calories |
632 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.6 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.0 g | 30% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2106 mg | 92% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.9 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.8 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.1 g | ||
| Protein | 10.8 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 194 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 4.8 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 2083 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.