Versatile Strained Tomatoes: From Pasta to Pizza Sauce and Everything In Between

Strained tomatoes, also known as tomato purée or passata, are a versatile ingredient that can add delicious depth to a wide range of dishes. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, these recipes will help you explore the myriad possibilities of this timeless ingredient.

Tomato Basil Pasta

This comforting and flavorful recipe transforms simple pasta into a delicious meal. The sauce is made with strained tomatoes, creating a smooth and creamy base that balances perfectly with the fresh basil and herbs.

Ingredients

400g pasta of your choice 2 cups strained tomatoes 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 onion, chopped Fresh basil leaves Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it's al dente. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until they become translucent. Add the strained tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a dish that brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean in one delicious pot. The sauce is made with strained tomatoes, and it's perfect for a hearty breakfast or a light lunch.

Ingredients

2 cups strained tomatoes 4 eggs 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 bell pepper, chopped 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp paprika Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until they become soft. Add the bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about a minute. Pour in the strained tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors develop. Make small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well. Cover and cook until the eggs are set. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with bread.

Tomato Soup

A classic comfort food, tomato soup is rich and flavorful. This recipe uses strained tomatoes, which provide a smooth and creamy base, making it easy to blend into a silky puree.

Ingredients

4 cups strained tomatoes 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth 1 tsp sugar (optional) Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh cream or croutons for serving

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until they become soft. Add the strained tomatoes and broth. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Blend the mixture until smooth, if desired. Serve hot with a drizzle of fresh cream or croutons on top.

Stuffed Peppers

A hearty and flavorful dish, these stuffed peppers are perfect for a meatless meal or a main course. The mixture is simple but full of flavor, thanks to the strained tomatoes and spices like cumin and chili powder.

Ingredients

4 bell peppers 1 cup strained tomatoes 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa 1 cup black beans, cooked 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp chili powder Cheese (optional) Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix the strained tomatoes, cooked rice or quinoa, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stuff the mixture into the peppers. Place them in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the tops.

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used to top both homemade and store-bought pizzas. This recipe uses strained tomatoes to create a delicious and smooth sauce that will elevate any pizza topping.

Ingredients

2 cups strained tomatoes 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried basil 1 tsp sugar (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant. Add the strained tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors deepen. Use the sauce as is or strain it for a smoother texture.

These recipes showcase the versatility of strained tomatoes and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences! Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, these recipes will help you explore the myriad possibilities of this timeless ingredient. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and creating your own delicious tomato-based meals!