Pomodoro Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory features a vibrant blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, basil, and olive oil, simmered to a smooth, flavorful consistency that perfectly coats pasta with a bright, aromatic finish.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Can opener (if using canned tomatoes)
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Stirring spoon
- Bowl (for prepping ingredients)
- Garlic press (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) ripe tomatoes or 2 cans (28 oz each) whole peeled tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Ripe tomatoes are essential for Pomodoro Sauce's bright and fresh flavor, but canned whole peeled tomatoes provide a convenient alternative without sacrificing taste. Using extra-virgin olive oil enhances the sauce's richness, so be sure to use good quality oil for the best results. Fresh garlic and basil leaves contribute to the sauce's aromatic profile, so handling these ingredients gently preserves their natural fragrances. Adjust salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference to balance the sauce perfectly. Your Pomodoro Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory copycat will shine with these carefully selected ingredients, delivering a smooth, flavorful finish that coats pasta beautifully.
Instructions
- Prepare all your equipment: saucepan, wooden spoon, chef’s knife, cutting board, can opener (if needed), measuring spoons, ladle, stirring spoon, bowl, garlic press (optional).
- If using fresh tomatoes, peel and chop them; if using canned, open cans and set aside.
- Peel and finely mince or press the garlic cloves.
- Rinse and roughly chop the fresh basil leaves.
- Heat olive oil in the saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté until fragrant (do not brown).
- Add chopped fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes (with juices) to the saucepan.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring with a wooden or stirring spoon.
- Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gently crush the tomatoes with the spoon as they cook for a smoother sauce.
- Taste and add sugar if needed for balance.
- Stir in the chopped basil leaves in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Check seasoning and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
- Remove saucepan from heat.
- Use a ladle to serve the sauce over cooked pasta or store for later use.
Substitution
Pomodoro Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory copycat menu relies on fresh, ripe tomatoes for its signature bright flavor; you can substitute canned whole peeled tomatoes if fresh ones are out of season, ensuring the sauce maintains its rich texture. Garlic cloves can be minced with a garlic press or finely chopped with a chef's knife depending on your equipment availability. When fresh basil is not accessible, dried basil can be used, but reduce the quantity to a teaspoon to avoid overpowering the sauce. Adjust salt and sugar to taste during simmering to balance acidity and enhance natural tomato sweetness. Use a wooden spoon for stirring to prevent damaging your saucepan's surface while ensuring the sauce cooks evenly.
Tips
Ensure you do not brown the garlic when sauteing in olive oil, as it can create a bitter flavor that overwhelms the sauce. When simmering tomatoes, stir occasionally and crush them gently to achieve a smooth consistency without breaking the saucepan surface. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor without overpowering the fresh tomato and basil notes. Keep in mind that adding fresh basil in the final minutes preserves its aroma and prevents it from losing its vibrant color and taste in your Pomodoro sauce.
Nutritions
Pomodoro Sauce is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in ripe tomatoes, which supports heart health and may reduce certain cancer risks. The extra-virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats that help lower bad cholesterol levels and promote brain health. Garlic contributes allicin, a compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, while fresh basil adds essential vitamins A and K. You can enjoy this sauce as a flavorful way to enhance your pasta dish without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats.
Storage
Store your Pomodoro Sauce in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavor and prevent contamination. Refrigerate the sauce and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portion-sized containers, where it can last up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation in texture, you can blend the sauce partially or fully using an immersion blender for a smoother consistency. Substitute fresh basil with dried Italian herbs if fresh herbs are unavailable; add dried herbs earlier in the simmering process to enhance flavor release. Consider roasting the garlic before sauteing to add a caramelized sweetness and depth to your Pomodoro sauce. You might also replace red pepper flakes with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different type of heat that infuses well throughout the sauce.
Allergies
Pomodoro Sauce contains garlic and olive oil, which are common allergens for some individuals and may cause adverse reactions, especially in those with sensitivities to alliums or olives. Fresh basil and tomatoes could also trigger allergic responses in rare cases due to their specific plant proteins. Be cautious if you or someone you're serving has known allergies to these ingredients to avoid potential discomfort or health issues.
Why this recipe?
Pomodoro Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory is beloved for its rich blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, creating a vibrant and authentic Italian flavor that enhances any pasta dish. The sauce's balanced acidity and subtle sweetness make it a versatile option that complements a variety of meals, appealing to both traditional and modern palates. You will find that mastering this copycat recipe allows you to replicate the restaurant's consistently delicious taste at home, saving money while enjoying a fresh, homemade alternative. Creating your own version ensures control over ingredient quality and customization, delivering a satisfying culinary experience tailored to your preferences.