A delightful tomato sauce enhanced with fresh herbs and a hint of sweetness, perfect for pasta or as a base for other dishes.
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid burning.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the onion from browning.
Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan.
Use a mix of fresh and canned tomatoes for a balanced flavor.
Season with salt, pepper, and the fresh herbs.
Crush the herbs slightly to release their aroma.
Stir in the sugar and minced garlic.
Adjust the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, covered.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Blend the sauce until smooth.
For a chunkier texture, pulse the blender instead of blending continuously.
Simmer the blended sauce for an additional 20 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning during this step.
Serve the sauce warm over your favorite dish.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil for presentation.