You can add flavor to plain tomato sauce by stirring in various seasonings and herbs.
Enhancing Plain Tomato Sauce Flavor
Plain tomato sauces, often referred to as marinara sauces, provide a versatile base. To elevate their taste and make them more vibrant, incorporating different flavors is key.
According to one method, if you're using a plain tomato (marinara) sauce, stir in seasonings to add extra flavor.
Key Seasonings to Stir In
Based on recommendations, several seasonings work well to boost the flavor profile of plain tomato sauce:
- Red Pepper Flakes: These add a gentle warmth and subtle heat that complements the sweetness of tomatoes.
- Dehydrated or Fresh Garlic: Garlic is a foundational flavor in many tomato sauces, providing pungent, savory depth. Using fresh garlic requires sautéing it first for the best flavor, while dehydrated garlic can be stirred directly in.
- Dried Oregano: This herb brings earthy, slightly bitter, and pungent notes that are characteristic of Italian cuisine.
- Parsley: Fresh or dried parsley adds a touch of freshness and a subtle peppery note, often used as a finishing herb or cooked into the sauce.
- Basil: Known for its sweet, aromatic, and slightly peppery flavor, basil is a classic pairing with tomatoes. Dried basil can be stirred in early, while fresh basil is often added towards the end of cooking or as a garnish.
- Italian Seasoning Blend: This is a convenient mix that typically includes herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, offering a balanced Italian flavor profile.
Adding these seasonings allows you to customize the sauce to your preference, making a simple base more complex and flavorful.
