Melissa's 'Sauwce': The Perfect Tomato Sauce for Pasta or Pizza

I’m excited to share a special recipe that’s been cherished —the tomato sauce passed down from Melissa’s dad, Don. This rich, flavorful sauce is perfect for bringing a touch of tradition to your favorite pasta and pizza dishes.

Ingredients:

• Pure virgin olive oil

• 3-5 cloves garlic

• 5-7 Fresh basil leaves (Optional)

• 1 parmesan rind (Optional)

• 1 (28 oz) can peeled San Marzano tomatoes

• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot. Pour in enough olive oil to cover the bottom by about 1 centimeter.

2. Slice Garlic: Peel and slice the garlic cloves horizontally into 1/8-inch thick pieces.

3. Drain Tomatoes: Pour the tomato juice from the can into a separate container and set aside.

4. Blend Tomatoes: Place the peeled San Marzano tomatoes into a blender and blend briefly for 7-10 seconds until smooth.

5. Heat Oil: Warm the olive oil in the pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic.

6. Brown Garlic: Cook the garlic until it’s lightly browned. Avoid burning it, as burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the sauce.

7. Add Tomato Juice: Carefully pour the reserved tomato juice into the pan and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.

8. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the blended tomatoes. Mix gently, stirring from the outer edges of the pan towards the center.

9. Simmer: Add parmesan rind (optional) Continue stirring every 5-10 minutes for about 30 minutes. Adjust heat to medium if the sauce begins to boil too vigorously; it should bubble gently without splashing.

10. Finish: Once the sauce has reduced by one-third, remove from heat and season with black pepper to taste.