Pizza Sauce
This homemade pizza sauce features tomato paste, garlic, onion, olive oil, Parmesan, and herbs. A rich, bold, and versatile sauce that brings classic Italian flavor to any pizza night.
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 6 fluid ounces warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ medium onion finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once warmed, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent browning.
Incorporate Tomato Base:
- Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the warm water. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches a smooth and consistent texture.
Add Seasonings and Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, marjoram, basil, black pepper, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Simmer the Sauce:
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks, developing a deep and robust flavor.
Serve or Store:
- Remove the sauce from heat. Use immediately by spreading over prepared pizza dough, or allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
This pizza sauce is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no flour or gluten-containing additives. However, when preparing for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, ensure that all ingredients—especially the tomato paste, Parmesan cheese, and dried herbs—are labeled gluten-free and free from cross-contamination.