You know what they say: the secret to any great Italian dish is a killer sauce. That’s why today, we’re diving deep into how to make the most tantalizing Prego sauce you’ve ever had. It’s not just about throwing together tomatoes and hoping for the best. No, this is about crafting a sauce that sings with flavor, one that could very well become your go-to for a myriad of dishes. Trust me, I’m as excited to share this with you as you are to learn it!
Prego Sauce Recipe Overview
- Course: Sauce
- Cuisine: Italian
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we kick off, make sure you’ve got the following equipment on hand. This will make the process smoother and ensure your prego sauce turns out just right:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or food processor (optional, for smoother sauce)
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this fabulous sauce. Lay out these ingredients, and you’re half the battle down.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz can |
Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Fresh basil, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
Fact: Did you know that adding a pinch of sugar to your tomato sauce can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes? It’s a simple trick that can make a big difference in flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Always start with a base of aromatics like onion and garlic to build depth of flavor.
Step 2 – Simmer the Tomatoes
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the sugar, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
A slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step!
Step 3 – Finishing Touches
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, transfer it to a blender or use an immersion blender in the pot to puree the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the fresh basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Fresh herbs should be added towards the end to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
Additional Tips
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out to your liking.
- For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes.
Pairing Suggestions
This sauce isn’t just for spaghetti. Here are a few ways to bring its robust flavors into other dishes:
- Lasagna
- Chicken Parmesan
- Grilled vegetables
- Meatball subs
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Carbohydrates | 13g |
Protein | 2g |
Fat | 4.5g |
Sodium | 420mg |
Note: These values are approximate. Always consult with a nutrition expert for detailed insights.
Dietary Information
This Prego sauce recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. To adapt it for a vegan diet, simply ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. Low-carb enthusiasts can reduce the sugar or omit it entirely.
FAQs about Prego Sauce
What can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?
You can substitute fresh basil with 1 teaspoon of dried basil. However, add it during the simmering process to enhance its flavor.
How long can I store homemade Prego sauce?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this sauce can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 6 months in the freezer.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely, although the cooking time will increase as you’ll need to cook down the tomatoes into a sauce consistency.
Is this sauce suitable for canning?
Yes, but ensure to follow proper canning guidelines to prevent spoilage.
How can I make this sauce creamier?
Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese at the end of cooking for a richer texture.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Certainly! Brown some ground beef or sausage before adding the onions for a heartier version.
Are there any other herbs that work well in this sauce?
Yes, marjoram or thyme are great additions. Use sparingly to complement the existing flavors.
Conclusion
There you have it—a classic Prego sauce that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a weeknight dinner for your family, this sauce will be a new favorite.
Feel free to leave your comments, questions, or feedback below. Let’s cook up a storm together!
Check out some more delicious sauce recipes:
- Marmalade Mum Recipe
- Pickling Spice Recipe
- Raspberry Chipotle Recipe
- Vanilla Moonshine Recipe
- Wingstop Blue Cheese Recipe
- Zaxby’s Wimpy Sauce Recipe
Prego Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or food processor (optional, for smoother sauce)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 28 oz can Crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh basil chopped
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Always start with a base of aromatics like onion and garlic to build depth of flavor.
Step 2 – Simmer the Tomatoes
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the sugar, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- A slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step!
Step 3 – Finishing Touches
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, transfer it to a blender or use an immersion blender in the pot to puree the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the fresh basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Fresh herbs should be added towards the end to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
Notes
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out to your liking.
- For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes.
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