Imagine biting into a slice of pizza where the sauce bursts with the rich flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes. This authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce is a game-changer for your homemade pizzas. It’s simple, fresh, and highlights the beauty of its few ingredients. Perfect for those who appreciate real Italian cuisine, this sauce is a staple that will elevate your pizza nights.
What makes this sauce truly special is its emphasis on quality ingredients. Using San Marzano tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a hint of basil, this pizza sauce captures the essence of Naples right in your kitchen. It’s bright, slightly sweet, and perfectly tangy, making it a delightful base for your favorite toppings.
Understanding the Essence of Neapolitan Pizza Sauce
At the heart of traditional Italian cooking lies a sauce that embodies simplicity and freshness.
Neapolitan pizza sauce is crafted using premium ingredients, showcasing the beauty of tomatoes and herbs. With crushed San Marzano tomatoes as the base, this sauce offers a balance of sweetness and acidity.
A splash of olive oil enhances its richness, while fresh basil infuses aromatic notes, making it a quintessential component of any pizza.
Choosing Quality Ingredients
Selecting the right ingredients can make all the difference in achieving that authentic flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are renowned for their sweetness and lower acidity, making them perfect for sauces.
Complementing the tomatoes is garlic, which adds depth to the flavor profile. Extra virgin olive oil not only contributes richness but also a fruity undertone.
Finally, fresh basil leaves not only enhance the taste but also provide a vibrant pop of color to the sauce.
The Cooking Process
Creating this sauce is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in under an hour. Begin by crushing the San Marzano tomatoes with your hands, preserving some texture for a rustic feel.
Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t brown to avoid bitterness. Combine the crushed tomatoes with the sautéed garlic, and season to taste.
Simmering for Flavor
Allowing the sauce to simmer is crucial for developing its flavor. On low heat, let it cook for about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This simmering stage melds the ingredients together, enhancing the overall taste and aroma of the sauce. A gentle simmer ensures the sauce becomes rich and slightly thickened.
Finishing Touches
Just before the sauce is ready, stir in fresh basil leaves for that fragrant, herbal freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve the desired flavor.
Once cooled, the sauce can be stored in an airtight container, ready to elevate your homemade pizzas. This versatility allows you to enjoy a taste of Naples at any time.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant pizza sauce is perfect for a classic Margherita pizza, topped simply with mozzarella and basil. It also serves as a fantastic base for other toppings, from pepperoni to grilled vegetables.
Use it generously to coat your pizza crust, allowing the rich flavors to shine through. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this sauce is sure to impress.
Best Neapolitan Pizza Sauce Recipe
This authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce is a simple yet flavorful blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. It’s smooth, tangy, and aromatic, making it the heart of any pizza. Whether you’re making a classic margherita or loading up on your favorite toppings, this sauce will ensure a delicious pizza experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14 ounces each) San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, adjust for sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: In a bowl, crush the San Marzano tomatoes by hand, ensuring to keep some texture. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend them briefly in a food processor.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned (about 1-2 minutes).
- Combine Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan along with sea salt, black pepper, and sugar if using. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Finish with Basil: Just before using, stir in fresh basil leaves to taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cool and Store: Let the sauce cool down before using it on your pizza. If not using immediately, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: About 2 cups
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
