Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of a rich tomato sauce simmering away, just waiting to fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. That’s exactly what you get with this Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes! This delightful dish is not only creamy and flavorful but also a magnificent way to utilize fresh, seasonal tomatoes. It’s like a burst of summer sunshine captured in a jar! Fun fact: Did you know that the humble tomato sauce has its roots dating back to ancient civilizations? Fast forward to today, and it remains a family favorite that’s simple and quick to prepare.
This dish stands out not just for its incredible taste but also for its ease of preparation. If you love the classic hearty flavors of spaghetti sauce — think of the popular Spaghetti Marinara recipe on our blog — you’re definitely in for a treat with this slow cooker version. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to experience the joy of homemade sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table!
What is Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes?
So, what’s in a name? Well, when it comes to Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes, it’s all about the good old tomato! You might be wondering: why does this sauce deserve such a regal title? Could it be that the slow-cooking magic transforms humble vegetables into a rich, sumptuous treat? That’s a fair question! Just like “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” this sauce is the way to everyone’s love, whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or a pizza fanatic. The slow cooker works wonders, melding fresh tomatoes with herbs and spices for a mouthwatering sauce. So why not gather your ingredients and dive into this flavor-packed recipe today?
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
This Crock Pot Tomato Sauce is a winner for a few key reasons! First and foremost, its main highlight is the use of fresh tomatoes, which offers a brighter and more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought sauces. Plus, making this sauce at home is a fantastic way to save money while embracing seasonal ingredients at their peak. It’s a delicious way to use up those garden tomatoes or farmer’s market finds!
But wait, what really makes this sauce shine? It’s the flavorful blend of garlic, basil, oregano, and a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes that creates an irresistible aroma and taste. Served over your favorite pasta, this dish can easily rival any restaurant version and is sure to impress your family and friends. And if you’re a fan of homemade spaghetti sauce, you’ll definitely want to try out this slow-cooked version. Why not grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and whip up a batch for dinner tonight?
How to Make Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
Quick Overview
Cooking Crock Pot Tomato Sauce is a breeze! You’ll love how this dish comes together effortlessly, blending fresh ingredients with minimal prep time. With just a little bit of chopping and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, aromatic sauce in just a few hours. The best part? This recipe requires only about 15 minutes of active prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!
Key Ingredients for Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
- 3 pounds fresh tomatoes, diced (about 12 medium-sized)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Image of all ingredients needed for the sauce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing the fresh tomatoes and dicing them into small pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Start with the Base: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Load the Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crock pot. Add the diced tomatoes, along with sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Slow Cook: Set your crock pot to low and cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high and cook for about 3-4 hours.
- Blend (Optional): Once the sauce is done, you can opt to blend it for a smoother consistency or leave it chunky, depending on your preference.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
What to Serve Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
This sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! Whether you opt for traditional spaghetti, zoodles for a low-carb option, or even a hearty lasagna, you can’t go wrong. For added texture, consider serving it with whipped ricotta or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top. You might also enjoy pairing it with garlic bread or a fresh side salad to complete your meal. The balance of flavors is sure to leave your taste buds dancing!
Top Tips for Perfecting Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your tomatoes, the richer your sauce will be. Consider visiting a local farmers’ market for the best quality.
- Customize Your Sauce: Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added flavor and nutrition.
- Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid of the crock pot during the last hour of cooking to allow for some evaporation.
- Watch the Salt: Depending on the tomatoes you use, be mindful of the salt content to avoid a sauce that’s overly salty.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store your Crock Pot Tomato Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in pre-portioned servings. The sauce can last up to three months in the freezer; just make sure to leave some space in the container as the sauce will expand when frozen.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For a quick option, you can also reheat it in the microwave.
So there you have it! With this simple, step-by-step guide, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes. Get cooking and savor the succulent flavors that await in your bowl!
Crock Pot Tomato Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 pounds fresh tomatoes, diced (about 12 medium-sized) The fresher the tomatoes, the richer the sauce.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste Be mindful of the salt content based on the tomatoes used.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by washing the fresh tomatoes and dicing them into small pieces.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Cooking
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crock pot. Add the diced tomatoes, along with sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Set your crock pot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or high for about 3-4 hours.
Finishing Touches
- Once the sauce is done, you can opt to blend it for a smoother consistency or leave it chunky.
- Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
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