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+ servings

Simple Napoli Sugo

A classic, no-fuss tomato sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as the base for your favourite Italian-inspired meals.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 3 cups

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small onion yellow or white, finely chopped
  • 1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 800 g good quality whole peeled canned tomatoes
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (or 6 basil leaves)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the onion:

  • Warm the olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it softens and becomes translucent.

Add the tomatoes:

  • Tip in the canned tomatoes with their juices. If you're using whole peeled tomatoes, break them up a bit with a spoon or masher. If you're using crushed tomatoes or passata, just pour them in.

Season the sauce:

  • Add the parsley, oregano, a good pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.

Simmer gently:

  • Lower the heat and let the sauce bubble away gently, uncovered, for 20–30 minutes. Stir every so often — it should thicken and develop a richer flavour as it cooks.

Finish and taste:

  • Taste the sauce and tweak the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a smooth sauce, you can blend it with a stick blender — or leave it rustic and chunky.
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