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Close-up of a fresh pizza crust generously covered with vibrant San Marzano Pizza Sauce and green herbs, with a wooden spoon resting in the sauce.
Maryam

Authentic San Marzano Pizza Sauce

This vibrant and simple recipe highlights the exceptional sweetness and delicate flavor of San Marzano tomatoes, creating an authentic pizza sauce that's far superior to store-bought varieties. Perfect for elevating any homemade pizza.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 pizzas
Course: Sauce, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 28 oz can Whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes certified D.O.P. preferred
  • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic finely minced
  • 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves packed, roughly torn
  • 0.5 tsp Dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp Fine sea salt or to taste
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • 0.25 tsp Granulated sugar optional, to balance acidity

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Potato masher (optional)
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

  1. Open the can of San Marzano tomatoes. Pour the contents into a large bowl. Using your clean hands or a potato masher, crush the whole tomatoes until no large chunks remain. A rustic texture is desirable.
  2. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown (browning will make it bitter).
  3. Pour the crushed San Marzano tomatoes into the saucepan with the garlic. Stir in the torn fresh basil leaves, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, and optional sugar.
  4. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. The sauce should thicken slightly.
  5. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to your preference. Remove from heat.
  6. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before spreading on your pizza dough. The sauce can be used warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly flavorful San Marzano pizza sauce!

Notes

For best results, always opt for certified D.O.P. San Marzano tomatoes from Italy. The quality of your tomatoes will directly impact the flavor of your sauce. This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.