Best Tomatoes To Make Sauce (2024 Update)
If you're looking for the best tomatoes to make sauce, you might be surprised to know that not all tomatoes are created equal. In fact, choosing the right variety can make a huge difference in the taste and quality of your sauce. Before you start shopping, there are a few factors you need to consider.
First, think about the purpose of your sauce. Are you looking for a thick, hearty sauce that can hold its own on pasta, or a lighter sauce to drizzle on top of fresh vegetables? Different tomato varieties will lend themselves better to different applications. Additionally, think about the acidity level you prefer and how acidic the tomatoes you're considering are. Finally, consider the ripeness of the tomatoes – while riper tomatoes might seem like the obvious choice, sometimes slightly underripe ones can give your sauce a unique tanginess.
When it comes to choosing the best tomatoes for sauce, there are a few questions you might want to ask yourself. Do you prefer a traditional, sweet Italian sauce, or are you looking for something with a bit more heat? Are you open to experimenting with different types of tomatoes, or do you have a tried and true favorite? And, perhaps most importantly, are you willing to invest a little extra money in high-quality, organic tomatoes that will produce an incredibly flavorful sauce? With these considerations in mind, you're sure to find the perfect tomatoes to take your sauce to the next level.
10 Best Tomatoes To Make Sauce
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It is ideal for cooking as it provides fresh taste and is vegan friendly and gluten free with no additives or preservatives.
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This product is ideal for those who want high-quality, gluten-free, non-GMO crushed tomatoes with no added water.
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The product is ideal for those looking for sustainably packaged crushed tomatoes in a convenient Tetra Recart box.
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Ideal for adding flavor and texture to chunky sauces, pasta dishes, bruschetta, soups, and other recipes that call for diced tomatoes.
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The pasta sauce variety pack is ideal for those looking for a healthy and flavorful option without any additives.
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Ideal for adding authentic Italian flavor to pasta dishes with fresh, high-quality ingredients in a convenient six-pack.
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This product is ideal for those seeking a high-quality tomato sauce made with natural ingredients and no additives.
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Ideal for gifting a selection of premium Italian food items and extra virgin olive oils.
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This product is ideal for cooking and adding rich flavor to dishes that require tomatoes.
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This product is ideal for making delicious tomato-based dishes and sauces.
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1. Mutti's Fresh Italian Tomato Passata, 4-Pack
Mutti sun-ripened tomatoes are the main ingredient in the 100% Italian Tomato Puree. This sweet, velvety puree is made with a touch of Mediterranean sea salt. The tomatoes are first stripped of their skin and seeds, then pureed to a smooth consistency while maintaining their bright red color and sweet flavor.
These pureed tomatoes are of the highest quality, with no GMOs, additives, or preservatives. The non-BPA packaging ensures that the puree's fresh flavor remains intact, bringing the taste of freshly picked tomatoes to your kitchen.
Mutti Tomato Puree is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. It is the best-kept secret for preparing a fast tomato soup, marinara sauce, or even a Bloody Mary. If you are a passionate cook, you will appreciate the great taste and consistency that this puree offers.
Mutti Tomato Puree is vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for people with dietary restrictions. Made with natural goodness, these canned tomatoes are delicious and provide a difference you can see and taste.
Since 1899, the Mutti family has been passionate about Italian tomatoes and preserving one of nature's perfect gifts at the peak of ripeness. Mutti has partnered with WWF in Italy for over 20 years to reduce water consumption and its carbon footprint. As Italy's #1 tomato brand, Mutti Tomato Puree is sustainably grown.
2. Fire Roasted Tomatoes – Family Recipe Pack
Dei Fratelli Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes are made from fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes that are hand-picked just hours before preserving. These tomatoes are bursting with flavor, making them the perfect addition to any recipe.
The tomatoes are carefully roasted over an open flame, enhancing their natural sweetness without the need for added sugar. The roasting process also lends a subtle, smoky flavor that adds depth to any dish. The result is a uniquely nuanced base that will elevate any recipe to new heights.
Busy families will appreciate the convenience of Dei Fratelli Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes. The recipe-ready can make cooking a breeze and the rich, fresh-from-the-garden flavor will please even the pickiest eaters.
Quality is of the utmost importance to the fifth-generation family company that produces Dei Fratelli Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes. They control every step of the process, from germinating their own seedlings to determining the perfect harvest time. Additionally, their BPA-free and recyclable packaging is sealed for ultimate freshness. The tomatoes are Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, and Preservative-Free, ensuring that families can trust the quality and safety of the product they are consuming.
Dei Fratelli is proud to work with local farms in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, where their tomatoes are grown from seeds into mouth-watering, fresh-packed products. By choosing Dei Fratelli Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes, you are supporting American-grown produce and a family-owned business that values quality and freshness above all else.
3. Colavita Italian Crushed Tomatoes, Tetra Recart Box, Sustainable Packaging, 13.76 Ounce (Pack Of 16)
This pack of premium Italian crushed tomatoes is an essential ingredient for anyone who loves to cook. These tomatoes are crushed to perfection, making them ideal for creating smooth and delicious sauces, soups, chili's, and pizza toppings.
One of the best things about these tomatoes is that they are non-GMO certified, so you can be sure that you are choosing a healthier option for your family. Additionally, there is no salt added, which means that you have more control over your sodium intake.
This pack of 16 is perfect for those who need an ample and convenient supply of tomatoes. The tomatoes come in recyclable recart packaging, which is a great eco-friendly option.
These tomatoes are a product of Italy, ensuring an authentic Italian culinary experience. They are of the highest quality, and their rich flavor will take your cooking to the next level.
4. Colavita Chunky Tomato Sauce: Sustainable & Tasty.
Introducing the Colavita Italian Diced Tomatoes, a premium ingredient that will elevate your favorite dishes to the next level! These delicious diced tomatoes are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your quick pasta, pizza, or soup recipes.
Colavita takes pride in producing premium Italian tomato products that are Non-GMO certified, ensuring that only the best ingredients are used. These diced tomatoes are packed in Tetra Recart cartons, featuring a modern design that is not only sustainable but also recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
What sets the Colavita Italian Diced Tomatoes apart is that they contain no added salt. This means that the natural flavor and color of the tomatoes are preserved, making them ideal for use in recipes where you want to control the amount of sodium. You can now enjoy the authentic taste of Italian tomatoes, minus the added salt!
In terms of specifications, these diced tomatoes come in a 26-ounce Tetra Recart carton, making it perfect for storing in your pantry. The tomatoes themselves are diced into bite-sized pieces, making them easy to incorporate into any recipe.
5. Barilla Tomato Basil & Traditional Pasta Sauces: Variety Pack.
Looking for a pasta sauce that's both healthy and delicious? Look no further than Barilla Premium Sauce! Made with quality ingredients and a passion for great flavor, this sauce is perfect for any home chef.
Barilla Premium Pasta Sauce is distinctively delicious, made with no added sugar and premium ingredients like 100% extra virgin olive oil, sweet diced tomatoes, and fragrant basil. The result is a sauce that's bursting with bright, fresh flavor.
What sets Barilla Premium Sauce apart is its commitment to quality ingredients. This pasta sauce is made with 100% extra virgin olive oil and naturally sweet vine-ripened tomatoes, with no added sugars or preservatives. It's also Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, and Kosher certified, making it the perfect choice for families with dietary restrictions.
Looking for the perfect pasta pairing? Try Barilla Premium Tomato & Basil Sauce with grilled or roasted chicken, or pair Barilla Premium Traditional Pasta Sauce with hollow pasta like rigatoni or penne pasta to catch all the sweet tomatoes. With its deliciously fragrant basil and sweet tomato flavor, this sauce is sure to impress.
And with its vegan, vegetarian, egg-free, and Kosher certification, Barilla Premium Pasta Sauce is a flavorful alternative to other brands of red sauce and spaghetti sauce. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this sauce is sure to be a hit.
For best results, heat the pasta sauce gently, stirring occasionally. And remember, don't microwave the jar! With Barilla Premium Pasta Sauce, you can enjoy the quality, flavor, and texture you expect – every time and in every dish.
6. Fresh Italian Marinara Sauce – 6 Pack
For those who appreciate the comfort and flavor of homemade Italian cuisine, Dell'Amore offers a versatile and delicious marinara sauce. Since 1918, the original family recipe has been carefully crafted with only the finest and freshest ingredients, maintaining the tradition of exceptional taste in every bottle.
Dell'Amore's marinara sauce is perfect for those who seek both convenience and taste. The carefully crafted jarred sauce is a pantry staple that can be used to create a variety of Italian-inspired dishes, from classic pasta dishes to casseroles and snacks.
The sauce is all-natural, gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, and kosher, making it a great choice for those who follow a diet-friendly lifestyle. It contains no added sugar, ensuring every jar of sauce is full of flavor with no compromises.
This 6-pack of Dell'Amore's Original Recipe sauce offers more to love, ensuring that your kitchen is always stocked with the flavor you need. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, you can enjoy the delicious taste of Dell'Amore's marinara sauce in the comfort of your own home, without the need for a reservation.
7. Tomato Perfection: Dei Fratelli 12-Pack
Dei Fratelli Tomato Sauce is a delicious and convenient option for families who desire fresh tomato flavor without sacrificing time. Unlike other brands that use paste and water, Dei Fratelli's recipe-ready sauce is made from vine-ripened tomatoes that are picked just hours before packaging. This process ensures that the sauce has a delicious, fresh taste that will leave your family wanting more.
The sauce is perfect for busy families who want to make cooking easy. It can be used in a variety of dishes including marinara, pasta bakes, salsa, and many others. Additionally, the sauce captures the true fresh-from-the-garden rich flavor that your family will love. The recipe is based on a long family tradition that includes touches of sea salt, garlic, onion, and peppers that give the sauce a rich and flavorful experience.
Dei Fratelli stands behind their product and offers quality that you can trust. They control the entire process from germinating their own seedlings to determining the perfect harvest time, and ensuring each BPA-Free recyclable package is sealed for freshness. The product is Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, and Preservative-free, making it a healthy and safe choice for your family.
What's more, Dei Fratelli sources their American-grown produce from their own farms and local family farms in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Their fifth-generation family has been growing their own tomatoes from seeds into a mouth-watering, fresh-packed crop, ensuring the quality and freshness of their product.
8. Organic Italian Gourmet Gift Basket
Looking for a gift that will impress and delight your loved ones? Look no further than this amazing Italian gourmet gift basket! Whether you're celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or graduation, looking for a thoughtful housewarming or retirement gift, or simply want to show your appreciation to an employee or colleague, this gift set is perfect for any occasion.
Inside this beautifully packaged gift basket, you'll find eleven authentic Italian food products that are sure to please even the most discerning foodie. From Morelli Organic Pasta to Giusti Balsamic Vinegar, Salami, Roi Basil Pesto and Artichoke Spread, Frantoi Cutrera Tomato Sauce, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and 3 Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oils (Lemon, Garlic, Truffle), this gift set has everything you need to create a gourmet Italian feast in the comfort of your own home.
But the real beauty of this gift basket lies in its presentation. Wrapped with a beautiful red bow, this gourmet basket is sure to make the lucky recipient feel special. And if you want to add a personal touch, simply select that you are sending it as a gift and include a personalized gift message for free.
But don't just take our word for it – our hand-assembled gourmet food gift baskets include products from small, family-run businesses that everyone will love. We have gift baskets for families, gift baskets for men, gourmet gift baskets, gift baskets for women, vegetarian gift baskets, sympathy gift baskets, gourmet charcuterie gift baskets, and Italian gift baskets for Christmas, New Year's, Thanksgiving, birthdays, and client and employee appreciation gifts as well.
So why wait? Treat your loved ones to a truly special gift today with this amazing Italian gourmet gift basket!
9. La Bella San Marzano – Italian Cherry Tomatoes (Pomodorini Di Collina), (6)- 14.5 Oz. Cans
This product is made in Italy and boasts a unique, sweet and natural taste that sets it apart from other tomato products on the market. It is made using only natural ingredients and is completely gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The tomatoes used in this product are of the highest quality, harvested and packaged on the same day to ensure maximum freshness.
This product is 100% authentic Italian and is a specialty of Southern Italy. It is perfect for use in recipes that require a short cooking time, as it adds a delicate and fresh flavor to any dish. Each order comes with six cans, each containing 14.5 ounces of this delicious tomato product.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this product is sure to impress. Its all-natural and gluten-free formula, combined with its authentic Italian taste, make it a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their cooking game. So why not add this distinctive tomato product to your pantry today and experience the authentic taste of Italy in your own kitchen?
10. San Marzano Dop Authentic Whole Peeled Plum Tomatoes – 28 Oz Cans (Pack Of 6)
Introducing the finest quality of San Marzano tomatoes, certified by the D.O.P. These 28 oz cans are imported straight from Italy, ensuring that you are getting the very best in terms of flavor and freshness. These tomatoes are carefully handpicked and come in a plum and fresh variety, making them the ideal ingredient for preparing mouthwatering pasta sauces and pizzas.
These tomatoes are cultivated in the fertile soil of the Sarnese Nocerino area, renowned for producing some of the best tomatoes in the world. The D.O.P certification guarantees that these tomatoes are grown using traditional methods, and are of the highest quality.
The 28 oz cans are perfect for those who love to cook, as they provide ample quantity to experiment with different recipes. These tomatoes are not only delicious but also highly nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.
Whether you are a professional chef or a cooking enthusiast, these San Marzano tomatoes are sure to elevate your cooking to the next level. So why wait? Order now and experience the authentic taste of Italy in your very own kitchen!
Best Tomatoes To Make Sauce FAQs
Are heirloom tomatoes better for making sauce than other types?
When it comes to making tomato sauce, heirloom tomatoes can be a great choice due to their rich and complex flavor profiles. Heirloom tomatoes are known for their unique taste and texture, which can result in a more flavorful and nuanced sauce compared to other types of tomatoes.
One of the reasons why heirloom tomatoes are favored for making sauce is because they are often grown using traditional farming methods, without the use of pesticides or other chemicals. This can result in a more natural and authentic flavor that is hard to replicate with other types of tomatoes.
Furthermore, heirloom tomatoes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its own distinct flavor profile. This diversity can allow for a more complex and interesting sauce, as different types of tomatoes can be combined to create a unique blend of flavors.
That being said, the choice of tomato ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific recipe being used. While heirloom tomatoes can be a great choice for making sauce, other types of tomatoes can also work well depending on the desired flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the sauce made with fresh tomatoes for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce made with fresh tomatoes for later use. Tomato-based sauces such as marinara, tomato and basil, or tomato and meat sauce can be easily frozen for future use. However, it's essential to let the sauce cool down to room temperature before packing it into airtight containers or freezer bags. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which could cause the sauce to spoil during freezing.
It's important to note that the texture and flavor of the sauce may change slightly after freezing. The tomatoes may become slightly mushy and the sauce may thicken. However, this won't affect the overall taste of the sauce, and it will still be delicious when you reheat it.
When you're ready to use the sauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the countertop for a few hours. You can reheat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
Can I mix different types of tomatoes for a better sauce?
Yes, you can definitely mix different types of tomatoes to make a better sauce. In fact, using a variety of tomatoes can add depth and complexity to the flavor of the sauce. Different types of tomatoes have different levels of sweetness, acidity, and texture, which can all contribute to the overall taste and texture of the sauce.
Some good tomato varieties for making sauce include San Marzano, Roma, and beefsteak tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are known for their sweet, rich flavor and meaty texture, while Roma tomatoes are known for their low water content and firm texture. Beefsteak tomatoes are larger and juicier, with a sweeter flavor.
When making a tomato sauce, it's best to use a combination of both meaty and juicy tomatoes to create a balance of flavors and textures. You can also experiment with adding other ingredients such as onions, garlic, herbs, and spices to further enhance the flavor of the sauce.
How do I prepare tomatoes for making sauce?
To prepare tomatoes for making sauce, you will need to start by selecting the right type of tomato. The best tomatoes for sauce are plum or Roma tomatoes, as they are meatier and have less water content. Once you have selected your tomatoes, wash them thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves.
Next, you will need to blanch the tomatoes. This involves boiling them in water for a few minutes, then transferring them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will make it easier to remove the skin, which can be done by gently peeling it off.
After removing the skin, you can then chop the tomatoes into small pieces or puree them in a blender. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you may want to strain the puree through a mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp.
Finally, heat some olive oil in a large pot and add your chopped or pureed tomatoes. Let them cook for a few minutes, then add any herbs or seasonings you like, such as garlic, basil, or oregano. Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness and flavor.
How long should I cook the tomatoes for making sauce?
The cooking time for making tomato sauce depends on the type of sauce you want to prepare and the desired consistency. Generally, it takes around 20-30 minutes to cook fresh tomatoes to make a basic sauce. However, if you want a thicker and richer sauce, you can increase the cooking time to 1-2 hours.
To start with, blanch the fresh tomatoes in boiling water for a minute to remove the skin. Then, chop the tomatoes and cook them in a saucepan over medium heat. Add some olive oil, garlic, onions, and seasoning to enhance the flavor. Stir occasionally and cook until the tomatoes are soft and the sauce has thickened.
If you are using canned tomatoes, the cooking time can be reduced to around 15-20 minutes. However, it is always better to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Overall, the cooking time for tomato sauce can vary based on individual taste and recipe requirement.
Should I remove the seeds and skins from the tomatoes before making sauce?
It ultimately depends on personal preference and the texture you desire for your tomato sauce. Some people prefer a smoother sauce without any seeds or skins, while others prefer a more rustic texture with the seeds and skins included.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can remove the skins and seeds by blanching the tomatoes in boiling water for a few minutes and then transferring them to an ice bath. This will cause the skins to easily peel off. Cut the tomato in half and gently squeeze out the seeds and any excess liquid.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave the skins and seeds in the sauce. The seeds and skins can add a slight bitterness to the sauce, but some people enjoy this flavor.
Ultimately, it's up to personal preference and the texture you desire for your sauce. Experiment with both methods and see which one you prefer!
Should I use fresh or canned tomatoes for making sauce?
The answer to this question largely depends on your personal preference and the specific recipe you’re using. Fresh tomatoes can be a great option for making sauce, as they offer a bright, tangy flavor that can be difficult to replicate with canned tomatoes. Many cooks prefer to use fresh tomatoes when they’re in season, as they tend to be more flavorful and less expensive during this time.
That being said, canned tomatoes can also be an excellent choice for making sauce, especially if you’re making a larger batch or if fresh tomatoes are out of season. Canned tomatoes are often cooked and packed very quickly after being harvested, which helps to lock in their flavor and nutrients. Additionally, they’re often less expensive than fresh tomatoes and can be more convenient to use, as they’re already peeled and chopped.
Ultimately, the decision to use fresh or canned tomatoes will depend on your personal preference and the specific recipe you’re following. If you’re not sure which option to choose, consider experimenting with both and seeing which one you prefer.
What are the best types of tomatoes for making sauce?
When it comes to making tomato sauce, the type of tomato you choose can make a big difference in the taste and texture of the final product. In general, the best types of tomatoes for making sauce are those that are meaty and have fewer seeds and less water content. This means that they will cook down into a thick, flavorful sauce without becoming too watery or mushy. Some popular varieties include San Marzano, Roma, and Amish Paste tomatoes, all of which have a dense flesh and a relatively low water content. Other good options include Cherry tomatoes, which can add a sweet, fruity flavor to your sauce, and heirloom varieties like Brandywine and Cherokee Purple, which have a rich, complex flavor that can enhance the overall taste of your sauce. Ultimately, the best type of tomato for making sauce will depend on your personal taste preferences and the specific recipe you are using.
What is the ideal ripeness of tomatoes for making sauce?
The ideal ripeness of tomatoes for making sauce is a matter of personal preference, but most people agree that slightly overripe tomatoes with a deep red color and soft texture are the best choice. These tomatoes have a higher sugar content, which results in a sweeter and more flavorful sauce. Overripe tomatoes also have a softer texture, which makes them easier to cook down into a smooth sauce.
It's important to note that using underripe tomatoes for sauce can result in a more acidic and less flavorful sauce. On the other hand, using overly ripe tomatoes can result in a sauce that is too sweet and lacks the desired acidity.
Overall, it's best to choose tomatoes that are slightly overripe and have a deep red color and soft texture for making a delicious and well-balanced tomato sauce.
Which varieties of tomatoes have the most flavor for sauce?
When it comes to making a delicious tomato sauce, choosing the right type of tomato is key. Generally, meatier and less juicy tomatoes are better for sauces as they contain less water and more flesh, which means they will break down more easily when cooked, resulting in a thick sauce with concentrated flavor.
Some of the most popular tomato varieties for making sauce include San Marzano, Roma, and Amish Paste. San Marzano tomatoes are considered the gold standard for making tomato sauce because they have a high amount of flesh, low water content, and a sweet, rich flavor. Roma tomatoes, also known as plum tomatoes, are another great option for sauce due to their meatiness and low water content. Amish Paste tomatoes are another favorite of many home cooks and chefs because they are exceptionally flavorful and have a firm texture that holds up well in sauces.
Ultimately, the best variety of tomato for making sauce comes down to personal preference and the specific recipe you are using. Experiment with different types of tomatoes to find the one that works best for you and your taste buds.
