Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce is a simple yet flavorful tomato-based sauce that forms the perfect base for any homemade pizza. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this sauce is bursting with the fresh taste of tomatoes, herbs, and garlic. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or loading your pizza with toppings, this sauce will bring out the best in every bite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Quick and Easy: This sauce comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for weeknight pizza nights.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh tomatoes and herbs ensures a vibrant, natural flavor that elevates your homemade pizza.

Versatile: This sauce pairs well with any pizza topping, from classic pepperoni to veggie-packed creations.
No Preservatives: Unlike store-bought pizza sauces, this homemade version is free from artificial preservatives.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this sauce in advance and store it for future pizza nights.

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What is Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce?

Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce is a fresh and simple tomato sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s designed to be the perfect base for homemade pizzas, offering a burst of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Ingredients

Ripe Tomatoes: 500g (about 1 lb), or 1 can of quality chopped tomatoes

Garlic: 2 cloves, finely chopped
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Fresh Basil: A handful of leaves, torn

Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
Salt: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste

Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Blanch and Peel (if using fresh tomatoes): If you’re using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. Peel off the skins and chop the tomatoes finely.
Use Canned Tomatoes: If using canned tomatoes, simply open the can and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sauce

Heat the Olive Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped fresh or canned tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Add Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the torn basil leaves, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor.
Simmer: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce (Optional)

Smooth the Sauce: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. Alternatively, you can leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Cool the Sauce: Allow the sauce to cool slightly before using it on your pizza.
Store: If making ahead, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Recipe

Classic Margherita Pizza: Spread the sauce on a pizza base and top with mozzarella and fresh basil for a traditional Margherita pizza.

Pepperoni Pizza: Use this sauce as the base for a delicious pepperoni pizza, adding slices of pepperoni and shredded cheese.
Veggie Pizza: Spread the sauce over a pizza crust and top with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives.
Calzones: Use this sauce inside calzones for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or garlic bread.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Recipe

Use Quality Tomatoes: Whether fresh or canned, high-quality tomatoes will make a big difference in the flavor of the sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it and sauté just until fragrant.

Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Recipe

Spicy Pizza Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for a spicy kick.

Garlic-Infused Sauce: For a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two of garlic.
Balsamic Tomato Sauce: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Roasted Tomato Sauce: Roast the tomatoes in the oven before making the sauce for a deeper, richer flavor.

How to Store Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Recipe

Refrigeration: Store any leftover pizza sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Pour the sauce into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce Recipe Leftovers

Stovetop Reheating: Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Microwave Reheating: For a quicker option, reheat the sauce in a microwave-safe container on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator before using.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for this pizza sauce?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used instead of fresh tomatoes. High-quality canned tomatoes, like San Marzano, work well and can save time. Simply substitute the fresh tomatoes with an equal amount of canned tomatoes.

How can I thicken my pizza sauce if it’s too thin?

To thicken pizza sauce, let it simmer on low heat until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste to help thicken the sauce.

Is Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce suitable for freezing?

Yes, Jamie Oliver Pizza Sauce is suitable for freezing. Freeze the sauce in an airtight container or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before using.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Pizza Sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition to any homemade pizza. With fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this sauce is packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or experimenting with your favorite toppings, this sauce will provide the perfect base for a delicious pizza. Enjoy the rich taste of homemade pizza sauce, knowing it’s made from scratch with love and care.

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