Easy No-Cook Pizza Sauce Recipe

Tomato Pizza Sauce Recipe

This homemade tomato sauce is a flavorful and simple addition to your pizza. Easy to make with a few pantry staples, its ready in minutes and stays fresh for up to 10 days in the fridge.

Ingredients

• 1 (28 ounce) can unsalted crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh torn basil leaves, or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and salt.

Step 2: Add the fresh basil (or dried basil), oregano, black pepper, garlic, and olive oil to the bowl.

Step 3: Stir the ingredients together until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Use the sauce immediately as a pizza topping or store it in an airtight in the refrigerator. The sauce can be kept for up to 10 days.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 32
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 148mg
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Vitamin C: 9mg (10% DV)
• Calcium: 21mg (2% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
• Potassium: 276mg (6% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This easy no-cook pizza sauce is perfect for anyone who wants a quick, homemade, and fresh topping for their pizza. Made with simple ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, this sauce is full of flavor without the need for any cooking. The best part? It can be prepared in just five minutes!

History of Pizza Sauce

The origins of pizza sauce are tied to the history of pizza itself, which dates back to the late 18th century in Naples, Italy. Early pizzas were simple flatbreads topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs. The tomato became a staple ingredient in Italian cuisine after it was introduced to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century. The no-cook method of preparing pizza sauce, such as in this recipe, became popular as pizza spread worldwide, allowing for a quick and flavorful topping that preserves the freshness of the ingredients.

Regional Variations of Pizza Sauce

While the no-cook pizza sauce is common in many households, regional variations of pizza sauce exist, especially in Italy. For instance, in Naples, where pizza was born, the sauce is typically made from San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweet flavor and low acidity. In contrast, pizza sauces in other regions, such as in Rome or Tuscany, may feature additional ingredients like anchovies, capers, or a splash of red wine, providing a distinct twist on the classic recipe.

How This Sauce Differs from Similar Dishes

What makes this no-cook pizza sauce stand out is its simplicity and quick preparation time. Traditional pizza sauces often require cooking, which helps deepen and meld the flavors. In comparison, this no-cook sauce is lighter and preserves the fresh, bright flavors of the tomatoes and herbs. Additionally, it is often less sweet than some commercial pizza sauces, as it uses only a small amount of sugar. The fresh garlic and basil in this recipe bring a level of aromatic depth that cooked sauces may lack.

Where to Serve This Pizza Sauce

This pizza sauce is perfect for homemade pizzas, whether you're making a classic Margherita or something more adventurous. It can also serve as a delicious dipping sauce for breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or even vegetable sticks. Its versatility makes it a great accompaniment to a variety of Italian-inspired dishes. Additionally, this sauce is often served in pizza parlors and restaurants, especially in casual or fast-casual establishments, where the focus is on simplicity and fresh ingredients.

Interesting Facts About Pizza Sauce

• The word "pizza" itself is believed to come from the Latin word "pinsa," meaning flatbread, which is fitting given pizza's simple origins as a flatbread topped with tomato.
• Tomatoes, a key ingredient in pizza sauce, were initially thought to be poisonous when they first arrived in Europe from the Americas, as they belong to the nightshade family.
• In Naples, pizza is often served with a simple drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves, highlighting the quality of the ingredients rather than relying on heavy sauces.
• While this no-cook pizza sauce recipe calls for basil and oregano, other popular herbs used in pizza sauce around the world include thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
• The rise of "fast casual" pizza chains has made no-cook sauces more popular, as they allow for a quicker, fresher pizza-making experience that appeals to modern tastes.

Conclusion

This easy no-cook pizza sauce is a perfect addition to any pizza night, combining fresh, vibrant ingredients that elevate your homemade pizza experience. Whether you're a pizza enthusiast or just looking for a simple and delicious sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its rich flavor and quick preparation, its a perfect way to bring the taste of Italy into your home without any of the hassle!

FAQ about Easy No-Cook Pizza Sauce Recipe