Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
7. Transfer the tomato mixture to a blender or food processor.
8. Add chopped mint leaves to the blender or food processor.
9. Blend until the sauce is smooth and the mint leaves are fully incorporated.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of sauce
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh mint leaves can be substituted with 1 tablespoon of dried mint leaves.
- Olive oil can be substituted with any other neutral oil.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamier version.
- Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for a cheesy version.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves to the sauce for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a high-quality can of crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Let the sauce cool down before blending to avoid any accidents.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
Storage instructions:
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce over pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with additional chopped mint leaves.
Garnishes:
- Chopped mint leaves
Pairings:
- Pasta
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and cookware when preparing the sauce.
- Store the sauce in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 5 days.
Food history:
- Tomato sauce has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Tangy, savory, and minty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce warm or at room temperature.
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