Description
Vibrant, creamy tomato sauce brightened with lemon and enriched with butter. Perfect for pasta, seafood, or chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ripe tomatoes, preferably Roma or San Marzano, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes and chilled
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or more, to taste, depending on tomato acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Score an “X” on the bottom of each tomato. Blanch in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel and chop into roughly 1/2-inch pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and white wine to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until tomatoes have softened. Stir occasionally.
- Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (to taste). Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- If the sauce is too watery, simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce.
- Reduce heat to the lowest setting.
- Add chilled butter, one or two cubes at a time, whisking vigorously until fully incorporated. Continue until all butter is used.
- Add fresh lemon juice and stir gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil and parsley.
- Serve Immediately: Serve over pasta, grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
- Toss with pasta, garnish with basil and Parmesan. Serve over grilled chicken or salmon. Use as a dipping sauce.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding water or broth if needed.
Notes
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic.
- Use chilled butter for a stable emulsion.
- Add the butter gradually, whisking constantly.
- Don’t overheat the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning frequently.
- Fresh herbs are key.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes