Easy Authentic Pomodoro Sauce: Nonna’s Classic Italian Tomato Recipe

Unlock the Secrets of Authentic Pomodoro Sauce

This classic pomodoro recipe brings the authentic taste of Italy to your dinner table with simple pantry staples and fresh basil.

Ingredients for Homemade Pomodoro Sauce

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 6 fresh basil leaves, torn

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sugo di Pomodoro

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the extra-virgin olive oil until it shimmers.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes: Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, scraping any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
4. Season and simmer: Stir in salt, pepper, and sugar. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish with basil: Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves. Let the sauce rest for 2 minutes to infuse.
6. Serve hot: Ladle the sugo over al dente pasta, use it as a pizza base, or drizzle on roasted gnocchi.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pomodoro Sauce

• Minimal ingredients: Just tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
• Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Perfect for pasta, pizza, gnocchi, and more.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Pomodoro

• Use high-quality olive oil for fruity depth.
• Opt for San Marzano tomatoes to capture authentic Italian flavor.
• Add a pinch of sugar only if the tomatoes taste too acidic.
• Don’t skip the basil—fresh herbs elevate the sauce.

Nutritional Information per Serving

• Calories: 152 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 7 g (Saturated Fat: 1 g)
• Sodium: 304 mg
• Sugar: 2 g

Serving Suggestions & Storytelling

Picture this: a warm bowl of linguine coated in your vibrant, homemade pomodoro sauce, basil leaves dancing in every twirl of the fork. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my Nonna’s kitchen—simple yet soul-satisfying. Gather loved ones around the table, pour a glass of red wine, and let this sugo di pomodoro become your new family favorite.

Enjoy your fresh, homemade pomodoro sauce draped over pasta, pizza, or gnocchi.

Original recipe credit: Allrecipes