Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1 tsp sugar

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion 5 mins until soft, add garlic for 30 seconds.

Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, and sugar.

Simmer 20–30 mins, stirring occasionally.

Stir in fresh basil in the last 5 minutes.

Blend for a smooth sauce if desired. Serve over pasta, pizza, meatballs, or as a dip.

3. Homemade Tomato Ketchup

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh tomatoes, pureed

¼ cup water

¼ cup white vinegar

¼ cup sugar

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.

Cook uncovered 20–30 mins, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Optional: mix cornstarch with water and stir in for extra thickness. Simmer 5 more mins.

Blend smooth, let cool, then store in a sterilized jar in the fridge up to 3 weeks.

4. Classic Basil Pesto