How to Make Spaghetti Sauce (Red Sauce) | Chef Jade's Cooking Lesson

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier, while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: crushed tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are more nutritious, and crushed tomatoes are often cheaper.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a saucepan.

Add 1 medium finely chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and lightly browned.

Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 can of tomato paste into the saucepan, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.

Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the saucepan. If desired, sprinkle in a pinch of dried red pepper flakes for heat.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed.

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

If the sauce tastes too acidic, add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors (this step is optional).

Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust the thickness by adding water or vegetable broth if desired, or continue simmering for a thicker sauce.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Once the sauce is cooked to your liking, serve it over spaghetti or your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for other Italian dishes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary