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Keto Sauces

Basic Spicy Tomato Sauce

A robust tomato sauce is the backbone of countless keto dishes, and I turn to this spicy version when I want bold flavor without the carbs. It comes together with basic pantry ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes, yet tastes like it simmered for hours. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s my go-to for adding life to zucchini noodles or a simple keto pizza.

10 min Prep time 10 min Cook time 20 min Total time 4 Servings 115 Calories
Basic Spicy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

  • tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • cup diced onion
  • cloves garlic, chopped
  • (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
  • teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. The aroma of sautéed onions fills the kitchen, and I know it's time to add the garlic. Toss in the chopped garlic and let it sizzle for 2 to 3 minutes, just until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning. Season with a pinch of salt to start. Let the sauce come to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the tomato base. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and spice level to your preference. If you love extra heat, feel free to add more pepper flakes. This sauce is wonderfully versatile and ready in no time.

Chef's Tip

For a richer, deeper tomato flavor, I always let the onions get lightly golden before adding the garlic. That extra minute of caramelization makes a world of difference, and a tiny pinch of sugar substitute can balance acidity if needed.

Storage Tips

Keep any extra sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, warm it slowly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened, just add a tablespoon of water or broth to loosen it.

Variation Tips

For a creamy version, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end. You can also blend the sauce for a smoother texture. This sauce pairs wonderfully with zucchini noodles, grilled chicken, or as a low-carb pizza base.

Frequently Asked Questions