Quick Herb-Infused Tomato Paste Sauce with Garlic and Honey
A concentrated, flavorful sauce made by gently cooking tomato paste with aromatic herbs and garlic in olive oil. The low-heat method intensifies the tomato flavor while the honey adds subtle sweetness. Perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on pizza bases, or using as a condiment. This pantry-friendly recipe transforms simple tomato paste into a rich, restaurant-quality sauce in just 8 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Add olive oil, garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, crushed red pepper, salt, and freshly cracked pepper to a small skillet
- 2
Stir and heat the mixture over low heat for about 3 minutes, allowing slight sizzling but preventing herbs from burning
- 3
Add tomato paste and honey to the skillet
- 4
Stir and heat over low heat for about 5 minutes until tomato paste darkens slightly
- 5
Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve
Tips
Keep heat low to prevent herbs from burning and becoming bitter
The sauce won't be smooth - the rustic texture is intentional and adds character
Sauce can be stored in refrigerator for up to one week
Good to Know
Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 1 week
Can be made up to 1 week in advance and refrigerated
Use as pasta sauce, pizza base, or condiment at room temperature or warmed
Common Mistakes
Keep heat low to avoid burning the herbs and garlic
Don't expect a smooth sauce - the rustic texture is correct
Substitutions
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, use triple the amount of fresh herbs and add them at the same time as the dried herbs would be added.
How long does this sauce keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors actually improve after a day.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, freeze in ice cube trays for portion control, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months.