Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce Recipe » Classic Pasta Pomodoro

Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce Recipe » Classic Pasta Pomodoro is a medium Italian recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Chef Billy Parisi on YouTube.

Prep: 25 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 25 min

Cost: $33.57 total, $8.39 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Vine‑ripe Tomatoes (organic, peeled and pureed)
  • 28 oz San Marzano Canned Tomatoes (whole peeled, crushed in blender)
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, for sautéing)
  • 1/2 Yellow Onion (grated fine, optional but recommended)
  • 2 Garlic Cloves (grated fine)
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp Fresh Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (torn, added at end)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomatoes for Peeling

    Trim the stem end off each tomato, cut a shallow X on the bottom of each fruit, and set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Blanch and Shock Tomatoes

    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Drop the tomatoes in for 30‑45 seconds until the skins begin to separate, then immediately transfer them to an ice‑water bath for 2‑3 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: boiling

  3. Peel the Tomatoes

    Remove the tomatoes from the ice bath. The skins should slip off easily; if not, gently peel with your fingers or a small knife. Discard skins.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Puree Fresh Tomatoes

    Place peeled fresh tomatoes in a blender (or food mill) and blend on high until completely smooth. Transfer to a large bowl.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Puree Canned Tomatoes

    Add the canned San Marzano tomatoes to the blender and puree until smooth. Combine with the fresh‑tomato puree.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Grate Onion and Garlic

    Using a microplane, grate the half onion and garlic cloves into a small bowl until they form a paste‑like consistency.

    Time: PT4M

  7. Sauté Aromatics

    Heat the large pot over low heat, add olive oil, then stir‑in the grated onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until translucent and just beginning to turn light brown.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: low heat

  8. Simmer the Sauce

    Pour the combined tomato puree into the pot with the aromatics. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce to low and cook uncovered for 30‑45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.

    Time: PT45M

    Temperature: low simmer

  9. Season and Finish

    Stir in sea salt, cracked black pepper, and torn fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

    Time: PT2M

  10. Serve or Store

    Toss the sauce with cooked linguine or your favorite pasta, top with grated Parmesan and extra basil. For storage, let cool before refrigerating or freezing.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
120
Protein
3g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
4g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free (sauce only)

Allergens: Dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Last updated: April 13, 2026

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Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce Recipe » Classic Pasta Pomodoro

Recipe by Chef Billy Parisi

A bright, silky Italian pomodoro sauce made from peeled fresh tomatoes blended with sweet San Marzano canned tomatoes, finely grated onion and garlic, finished with sea salt, cracked black pepper and fresh basil. Perfect for tossing with linguine or any pasta, and versatile for lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, or as a base for other dishes.

MediumItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
22m
Prep
1h 5m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 37m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$33.57
Total cost
$8.39
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Peeling the fresh tomatoes without tearing the flesh
  • Achieving a completely smooth puree
  • Sautéing onion and garlic on low heat to avoid bitterness
  • Simmering the sauce long enough to develop depth without burning

Safety Warnings

  • Use caution when handling boiling water and hot oil
  • Sharp knife required for trimming tomatoes
  • Hot pot and steam can cause burns

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Pomodoro Sauce in Italian cuisine?

A

Pomodoro sauce, literally “tomato sauce,” is a cornerstone of Italian home cooking, dating back to the 18th century when tomatoes were first cultivated in Italy. It became the base for countless regional dishes, from Neapolitan pasta to Tuscan soups, embodying the Italian philosophy of simple, high‑quality ingredients.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Pomodoro Sauce in Italy?

A

In the south, especially Campania, the sauce often includes extra‑virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil, while in the north it may feature butter, onions, and a touch of white wine. Some regions add carrots or celery for a soffritto base, but the classic “pomodoro” remains a pure tomato‑onion‑garlic blend.

cultural
Q

How is Pomodoro Sauce traditionally served in Italy?

A

It is typically ladled over freshly cooked pasta such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne, then finished with grated Parmigiano‑Reggiano and a few fresh basil leaves. It also serves as the foundation for dishes like lasagna, chicken cacciatore, and eggplant Parmesan.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Pomodoro Sauce traditionally associated with in Italian culture?

A

Pomodoro sauce appears at everyday family meals and special gatherings alike. It is a staple at Sunday lunches, holiday feasts, and festive celebrations where pasta is a central dish, symbolizing hospitality and abundance.

cultural
Q

What makes Pomodoro Sauce special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

Its simplicity showcases the quality of the tomatoes, olive oil, and fresh basil. When prepared correctly, the sauce achieves a silky texture without any thickeners, letting the natural sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes shine.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Pomodoro Sauce?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the garlic (causing bitterness), using low‑quality canned tomatoes, and skipping the peeling step, which can leave a gritty texture. Also, cooking the sauce on high heat can cause it to scorch and lose flavor.

technical
Q

Why does this Pomodoro Sauce recipe use a microplane for onion and garlic instead of a food processor?

A

A microplane creates an ultra‑fine paste that fully integrates into the sauce, preventing any chunky texture. A food processor can leave larger pieces, which changes the mouthfeel of the finished sauce.

technical
Q

Can I make Pomodoro Sauce ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the sauce can be made up to two days ahead. Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze in portion‑size bags for up to three months and reheat gently on the stovetop.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Pomodoro Sauce?

A

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, glossy, and free of any tomato skins or onion pieces. It should have a deep ruby color and a smooth, velvety mouthfeel.

technical
Q

How do I know when Pomodoro Sauce is done cooking?

A

When the sauce has reduced by about one‑third, the flavors have concentrated, and it clings to the spoon without pooling, it is done. A taste test should reveal balanced acidity and sweetness.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Chef Billy Parisi specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Chef Billy Parisi focuses on teaching classic cooking techniques and from‑scratch recipes, especially Italian‑style dishes, with clear step‑by‑step demonstrations for home cooks of all skill levels.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Chef Billy Parisi's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

Chef Billy Parisi emphasizes mastering foundational techniques—like proper tomato peeling and micro‑grating aromatics—while offering flexible options (fresh or canned tomatoes) that adapt to seasonal availability, making his tutorials both authentic and highly practical.

channel

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