As the summer months come to an end, many of us find ourselves with an abundance of fresh tomatoes and herbs from our gardens or local farmers’ markets. Luckily, there is a delicious and convenient way to preserve and enjoy the harvest throughout the year – freezer-friendly spaghetti sauce. Not only is this sauce a perfect way to use up an abundance of summer produce, but it is also a convenient, time-saving option for busy weeknights.
Freezer-friendly spaghetti sauce is perfect for preserving the flavors of summer, and it is easy to make in large batches. By making a big batch of sauce and freezing it in smaller portions, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year long. This also saves time and effort when it comes to preparing meals, as you can simply defrost a portion of sauce and whip up a quick and delicious meal in no time.
To make freezer-friendly spaghetti sauce, start by gathering your fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme. You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to add more depth of flavor to your sauce. Once you have all your ingredients, follow this simple recipe to make your own freezer-friendly spaghetti sauce:
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme), chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
– 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste (optional, to thicken the sauce)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
4. Add the fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper to the pot and stir to combine.
5. If using, add the sugar and tomato paste to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
7. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, let it cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
To freeze the sauce, divide it into portions that are suitable for your needs, such as in 1-cup or 2-cup portions. Make sure to leave some room at the top of the container to allow for expansion as the sauce freezes. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
When you are ready to enjoy your freezer-friendly spaghetti sauce, simply defrost a portion in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave. Then, heat the sauce in a pot on the stovetop until it is heated through, and serve it over your favorite pasta for a delicious and convenient meal.
In conclusion, freezer-friendly spaghetti sauce is a fantastic way to preserve the summer harvest and enjoy the flavors of fresh tomatoes and herbs year-round. With just a little bit of effort, you can make a big batch of sauce that will save you time and effort in the kitchen while still enjoying the taste of summer. Give this recipe a try and savor the flavors of the season all year long.