Tomato Pasta with Savory Sauce

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €2.98 · €0.50/serving

• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €0.36–€0.90
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to tasteEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional), or to tasteEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 2 (28- to 32-ounce) cans whole tomatoes in juiceEst. price €2.00–€4.50
• 2 medium onions, finely choppedEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• 4 garlic cloves, finely choppedEst. price €0.20–€0.40

Steps

1. 1

   In a heavy saucepan, heat oil over moderate low heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring occasionally until they are softened, which should take around 6 to 8 minutes.

2. 2

   Start by adding the tomatoes along with their juices into a pot. Season with salt and allow the mixture to simmer gently without a lid. Stirring occasionally, use a fork to mash the tomatoes as they cook. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and reduces down to approximately 5 cups, which should take around 1 to 1 1/4 hours.

3. 3

   To balance out any excess acidity in the sauce, stir in some sugar and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Full steps, exact amounts, and Cook Mode are available after sign-in.

• Cultural note

  Tomato pasta dishes have roots in Italian cuisine, where tomatoes are a staple ingredient. The combination of tomatoes, onions, and garlic reflects the Mediterranean influence on this dish.

• Seasonal note

  Tomatoes are best in the summer, making this dish ideal for that season. Onions and garlic are commonly available year-round, ensuring this recipe can be enjoyed anytime.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C from the tomatoes. However, it is high in sodium and saturated fat, so portion control is key for a balanced diet.