A no-peel homemade roasted tomato sauce with just 7 ingredients

A no-peel homemade roasted tomato sauce with just 7 ingredients is a easy Italian recipe that serves 6. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by Last Ingredient on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 25 min

Cost: $7.40 total, $1.23 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Cherry Tomatoes (whole, washed; halve larger ones for even roasting)
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (peeled and cut into wedges)
  • 4 large Garlic Cloves (peeled and smashed)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra-virgin preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (torn, added after simmering)
  • 1/4 cup Water (to adjust consistency if needed)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and let it fully preheat while you prepare the vegetables.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 425°F

  2. Prepare Vegetables

    Wash the cherry tomatoes. Peel the onion and cut it into wedges. Peel the garlic cloves and smash them with the flat side of the knife.

    Time: PT10M

  3. Season and Toss

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion wedges, and smashed garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Roast the Vegetables

    Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a parchment‑lined baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the tomatoes are blistered and the onions are caramelized.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 425°F

  5. Blend the Roasted Mix

    Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onions, and garlic (including any juices) to a blender. Add the fresh basil leaves. Blend on high until smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Simmer and Thicken

    Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. If it becomes too thick, stir in a little water or broth.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  7. Cool and Store

    Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
80
Protein
2g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
2g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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A no-peel homemade roasted tomato sauce with just 7 ingredients

Recipe by Last Ingredient

A simple, flavorful roasted tomato sauce made by roasting whole cherry tomatoes with onion, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes, then pureeing and simmering to a perfect consistency. Ideal for pasta, pizza, or as a versatile dip.

EasyItalianServes 6

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

Source Video
30m
Prep
50m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.40
Total cost
$1.23
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Roasting the tomatoes and onions to develop deep flavor.
  • Blending the hot roasted vegetables safely without steam buildup.
  • Simmering the sauce to achieve the right thickness without burning.

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot baking sheet.
  • Allow steam to vent when blending hot ingredients to prevent pressure buildup.
  • Be careful when stirring the simmering sauce; the pan handle will be hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of roasted tomato sauce in Italian cuisine?

A

Tomato sauce is a cornerstone of Italian cooking, originating in Southern Italy after the 16th‑century introduction of tomatoes from the New World. Roasting tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a smoky note that many traditional Italian families cherish for pasta and pizza.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of tomato sauce in Italian cuisine?

A

In Naples, sauce often includes fresh basil and a touch of garlic; in Sicily, it may feature capers, olives, and a hint of cinnamon. The roasted version presented by Last Ingredient reflects a modern, flavor‑focused twist while still honoring the simple, ingredient‑driven roots of Italian sauces.

cultural
Q

How is roasted tomato sauce traditionally served in Italy?

A

It is commonly tossed with al dente pasta such as spaghetti or linguine, spooned over pizza dough before baking, or used as a base for dishes like chicken cacciatore. Fresh herbs are added at the end to brighten the flavor.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is roasted tomato sauce associated with in Italian culture?

A

Tomato‑based sauces are served at everyday family meals and special gatherings alike, from Sunday lunches to festive holiday feasts. The roasted version is especially popular during late summer when tomatoes are at their peak.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with this roasted cherry tomato sauce from Last Ingredient?

A

It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, baked eggplant Parmesan, seafood linguine, and as a topping for focaccia or flatbread. The sauce’s bright acidity also complements rich cheeses like mozzarella and pecorino.

cultural
Q

What makes this roasted cherry tomato sauce special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

The use of whole, unpeeled cherry tomatoes and high‑heat roasting creates caramelized, smoky flavors that differ from the classic quick‑sauté method. This technique, demonstrated by the YouTube channel Last Ingredient, brings out a deeper sweetness without added sugars.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making roasted cherry tomato sauce at home?

A

Common errors include over‑roasting the tomatoes until they burn, not seasoning the vegetables before roasting, and blending the hot mixture without venting, which can cause pressure buildup. Follow the critical steps and tips to ensure a balanced, safe result.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe roast the tomatoes instead of sautéing them on the stovetop?

A

Roasting concentrates the natural sugars and adds a subtle char that sautéing cannot achieve without extra oil. The high dry heat also softens the skins, making them easier to blend into a smooth sauce.

technical
Q

Can I make this roasted cherry tomato sauce ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to five days in an airtight container or frozen for three months. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore the desired consistency.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the sauce is done simmering?

A

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, with a glossy sheen and a deep ruby‑red color. It should smell fragrant with roasted tomato and garlic notes, without any raw or metallic taste.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Last Ingredient specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Last Ingredient focuses on simple, ingredient‑driven recipes that highlight natural flavors, often using minimal equipment and clear step‑by‑step instructions for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Last Ingredient's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

Last Ingredient emphasizes quick, accessible techniques like roasting whole vegetables to build flavor, rather than relying on long‑simmered sauces or complex preparations. The channel’s style is straightforward, budget‑friendly, and designed for everyday kitchens.

channel

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