Spaghetti Sauce With Oregano Recipe

If you're seeking a classic, richly flavored spaghetti sauce, look no further. This recipe calls for an aromatic and flavorful blend of ingredients that are sure to satisfy your palate. The star of the show is oregano, which imparts a unique, robust flavor that sets this sauce apart from others.

Photos of Spaghetti Sauce With Oregano Recipe

All ingredients in this recipe are typically found in your average grocery store. However, note that the red wine vinegar used here is not the same as regular vinegar; it has a distinct flavor that adds depth to the sauce. The same goes for the oregano, which should be dried, not fresh.

Ingredients for Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

Tomatoes: The base of any good spaghetti sauce, providing the body and main flavor.

Tomato sauce: Adds depth to the tomato flavor and contributes to the sauce's rich texture.

Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.

Garlic: Adds an aromatic, slightly spicy flavor that complements the tomatoes well.

White sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the sauce.

Oregano: The key seasoning that gives the sauce its unique, robust flavor.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a kick of heat to the sauce, but can be adjusted to taste.

One reader, Hannis East says:

This oregano spaghetti sauce recipe is a game-changer! The blend of tomatoes, oregano, and garlic creates a rich and flavorful sauce that elevates any pasta dish. The touch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. It's now my go-to recipe for a quick and delicious spaghetti dinner!

Hannis East

Techniques Required for Making Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

How to simmer the sauce: Simmer the sauce over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to the desired consistency.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more oregano for a stronger flavor, sugar to balance the acidity, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

How To Make Nanny’s Spaghetti Sauce

This spaghetti sauce is filled with flavorful spices and the combination of sweet tomatoes and the strong oregano mixed and simmered together until cooked.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

28oztomatoes,crushed, 1 can
8oztomato sauce,2 cans
6oztomato paste,1 can
3cloves garlic,minced
1tbspwhite sugar
2tbspred wine vinegar
2tsporegano,dried
pinchred pepper flakes,crushed

Instructions

In a large skillet, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, garlic, sugar, vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Stir all together and simmer over low heat for at least 30 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Calories: 68.26kcal
Fat: 0.53g
Saturated Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.21g
Carbohydrates: 15.34g
Fiber: 3.49g
Sugar: 10.39g
Protein: 2.97g
Sodium: 410.50mg
Calcium: 37.08mg
Potassium: 725.47mg
Iron: 1.74mg
Vitamin A: 85.71µg
Vitamin C: 27.48mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Oregano Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

To ensure that your spaghetti sauce develops a deep, rich flavor, consider sautéing the garlic in a little olive oil before adding the other ingredients. This process, known as blooming, releases the aromatic compounds in the garlic, enhancing the overall flavor of the sauce. Additionally, don't rush the simmering process. The longer the sauce simmers, the more the flavors will meld together, resulting in a more robust and flavorful sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Oregano Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and immersion blenders to speed up prep work.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch of sauce and freeze it in portions for quick and easy future meals.

Organize ingredients: Arrange ingredients in the order they are used to avoid scrambling during cooking.

Time-saving shortcuts: Consider using pre-chopped or canned ingredients to cut down on prep time.

Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks in parallel to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.

Label and store: Properly label and store ingredients to easily locate them for future use.

Quick cooking methods: Opt for quick cooking methods like pressure cooking or stir-frying for time-efficient meals.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti Sauce With Oregano Recipe

tomato paste - Substitute with sun-dried tomato paste: Sun-dried tomato paste has a more concentrated flavor and adds a rich, sweet-tart complexity to the sauce.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor, which can complement the other ingredients in the sauce.

Best Way to Present Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the oregano spaghetti sauce in a shallow, wide bowl, ensuring that each ingredient is visible and beautifully presented.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few fresh oregano leaves over the top of the oregano spaghetti sauce to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Pair with artisanal pasta: Serve the oregano spaghetti sauce alongside freshly made, hand-cut pasta for a truly elevated dining experience.
Add a touch of elegance with a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a high-quality, fruity extra virgin olive oil over the oregano spaghetti sauce to enhance the flavors and add a luxurious finish.
Serve with a side of garlic bread: Accompany the oregano spaghetti sauce with warm, crispy garlic bread, adding a delightful crunch and complementary flavors to the dish.
Present in individual ramekins: For a sophisticated touch, portion the oregano spaghetti sauce into individual ramekins and serve each guest their own perfectly portioned dish.
Incorporate a sprinkle of Parmesan: Finish the oregano spaghetti sauce with a delicate dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, adding a rich umami flavor and a touch of elegance to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is an essential tool for cooking the spaghetti sauce.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the sauce as it won't react with acidic ingredients like metal might.
Stove: The stove is necessary for heating and simmering the spaghetti sauce.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Allow the spaghetti sauce to cool completely before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to spoilage.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Glass containers or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for storing the sauce in the refrigerator.
To freeze the oregano spaghetti sauce for longer storage, follow these steps:
1. Portion the cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
2. If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
3. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
5. The spaghetti sauce can be frozen for up to 6 months.
To thaw frozen spaghetti sauce, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can place the frozen container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the sauce is thawed.
Once thawed, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, you can add a little water or tomato sauce to adjust the consistency.
Note: Avoid thawing the sauce at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of foodborne illness.

How To Reheat Leftover Spaghetti Sauce

Stovetop: transfer the leftover oregano spaghetti sauce to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the sauce is evenly reheated without burning or drying out.
Microwave: place the leftover sauce in a microwave-safe container and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the sauce is heated through. Be careful when removing the container from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Oven: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). transfer the leftover sauce to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through. Stir the sauce halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Slow cooker: if you have a large amount of leftover sauce, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the sauce to the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cover and let the sauce reheat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal for keeping the sauce warm for an extended period without overcooking it.
Pasta: if you plan to serve the reheated sauce over freshly cooked pasta, you can combine the leftover sauce with the hot pasta directly in the pot. The heat from the pasta will help warm up the sauce, and the starch from the pasta water will help the sauce adhere to the noodles.

Interesting Fact About Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

Oregano is a member of the mint family and is native to the Mediterranean region. It has been used for centuries in cooking and medicine due to its aromatic and flavorful properties. In addition to being a key ingredient in spaghetti sauce, oregano is also known for its potential health benefits, including its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Is Making Spaghetti Sauce at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this oregano spaghetti sauce recipe is quite high. The ingredients are affordable and commonly found in households. The use of canned tomatoes and basic seasonings keeps the cost low. With an approximate cost of $10, this recipe can easily feed a household of 4. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10. It offers a flavorful and versatile sauce that can be used in various dishes, making it a valuable addition to any home cook's repertoire.

Is This Spaghetti Sauce Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This oregano spaghetti sauce recipe is a healthier option compared to store-bought sauces, as it uses fresh ingredients and avoids preservatives. The tomatoes provide a good source of vitamin C, while the garlic offers potential benefits for heart health and immune function. However, the recipe does contain added sugar and lacks significant amounts of protein or fiber.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of added sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Add more vegetables to the sauce, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to increase the fiber content and nutrient density
Use whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta to boost the fiber intake
Incorporate lean protein sources like ground turkey or tofu to make the meal more balanced and satisfying
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as basil or thyme, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt or sugar

By making these adjustments, you can transform this oregano spaghetti sauce into a nutrient-packed, well-rounded meal that supports your overall health and well-being. Remember, homemade sauces allow you to control the ingredients and tailor the recipe to your specific dietary needs and preferences.

Editor's Opinion on This Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

This oregano spaghetti sauce recipe is a classic and versatile addition to any pasta dish. The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and oregano creates a rich and flavorful sauce that is perfect for coating your favorite pasta. The addition of red wine vinegar adds a subtle tanginess, while the pinch of red pepper flakes provides a hint of heat. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful base for a variety of pasta dishes and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a good, homemade spaghetti sauce.

Enhance Your Spaghetti Sauce With Oregano Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused butter and toasted to perfection

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and savory Parmesan cheese

Meatballs: Juicy, tender meatballs seasoned with herbs and spices, served in a rich and flavorful marinara sauce

Similar Recipes to Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and al dente pasta.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This vibrant and flavorful dish combines juicy mango salsa with tender grilled chicken for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup, seasoned with aromatic spices and finished with a drizzle of creamy coconut milk.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in a sweet and tangy berry cobbler, with a golden brown crust and a bubbling filling of fresh berries. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Oregano Spaghetti Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with classic bruschetta topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. Serve on crispy, toasted baguette slices for a burst of Italian flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Spaghetti Sauce With Oregano Recipe:

This recipe is crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors, ensuring an authentic Italian experience. The use of tomatoes, garlic, and oregano guarantees a rich and aromatic sauce. The addition of red wine vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes elevates the depth of flavors, creating a well-balanced and tantalizing sauce. The careful simmering process allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a robust and satisfying spaghetti sauce. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these ingredients to deliver a delicious and comforting meal.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this spaghetti sauce with oregano recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How long should I simmer the spaghetti sauce?

Simmer the spaghetti sauce over low heat for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes. Simply blanch and peel the fresh tomatoes, then crush them before adding to the sauce.

Can I substitute dried oregano with fresh oregano?

Yes, you can substitute dried oregano with fresh oregano. Use three times the amount of fresh oregano compared to the dried oregano called for in the recipe.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.

How spicy is the sauce with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick to the sauce, but it's not overly spicy. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.