Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Sauce Recipe

When it comes to pizza, there’s nothing quite like the simplicity and perfection of an authentic Neapolitan pizza. At the heart of this iconic dish is the sauce—fresh, vibrant, and full of pure tomato flavor. Unlike many other pizza sauces, a true Neapolitan sauce is uncooked, allowing the natural sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes to shine. This minimalist approach highlights the quality of the ingredients, making each bite a celebration of Italy's rich culinary heritage. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce that will elevate your homemade pizza to new heights.

What is Neapolitan Pizza Sauce?

Neapolitan pizza sauce is a traditional Italian sauce that’s used as the base for the classic Neapolitan pizza. Made with just a few simple ingredients—San Marzano tomatoes, salt, and sometimes a touch of fresh basil or olive oil—this sauce is uncooked to preserve the fresh, vibrant taste of the tomatoes. The simplicity of the sauce allows the natural flavors of the high-quality tomatoes to take center stage, complementing the other elements of the pizza like the dough, cheese, and toppings without overpowering them. The result is a beautifully balanced, flavorful pizza that’s light, fresh, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients List for Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Sauce

To make an authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. San Marzano Tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces) of whole, peeled San Marzano tomatoes (DOP certified if possible)
2. Sea Salt: ½ to 1 teaspoon (to taste)
3. Fresh Basil: A few leaves (optional, for added flavor)
4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a richer taste)

Why Use San Marzano Tomatoes?

San Marzano tomatoes are a special variety of plum tomatoes that are grown in the volcanic soil of the Sarno River Valley, near Mount Vesuvius in Italy. They are prized for their sweet, low-acid flavor and firm texture, which makes them ideal for sauces. The DOP (Denominazione d'Origine Protetta) certification ensures that the tomatoes are grown and processed in the traditional way, preserving their unique qualities. Using San Marzano tomatoes is essential for achieving the authentic taste and texture of a Neapolitan pizza sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Sauce

Making this sauce is incredibly simple, but the key is to handle the ingredients with care to preserve their fresh flavors. Here’s how you can make an authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Open the can of San Marzano tomatoes and pour the contents into a large bowl. Using your hands, gently crush the tomatoes. Be careful not to over-puree them; you want a slightly chunky texture with some small pieces of tomato still intact. This rustic texture is characteristic of a traditional Neapolitan sauce.
2. Season the Sauce: Add sea salt to the tomatoes, starting with ½ teaspoon. Taste the sauce and add more salt if needed. The amount of salt can vary depending on your taste and the natural flavor of the tomatoes. Remember, it’s better to start with less salt and add more as needed.
3. Optional Additions: If you prefer a slightly richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. For a hint of fresh herb flavor, tear a few fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce. However, these additions are entirely optional and should be used sparingly to keep the focus on the tomatoes.
4. Let the Sauce Rest: While not strictly necessary, letting the sauce rest for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld. If you’re short on time, you can use the sauce immediately.
5. Use the Sauce: Spread the sauce thinly and evenly over your prepared Neapolitan pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Avoid using too much sauce; the key to an authentic Neapolitan pizza is balance.

How to Use Neapolitan Pizza Sauce

This sauce is ideal for making a classic Margherita pizza or any other traditional Neapolitan pizza. Here's how to use it:

1. Preheat Your Oven: If you’re baking your pizza in a conventional oven, preheat it to its highest setting, ideally around 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats to help achieve a crispier crust.
2. Prepare the Dough: Stretch out your Neapolitan pizza dough to a thin, round shape on a lightly floured surface. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Add the Sauce: Spoon a few tablespoons of the sauce onto the center of the dough and use the back of the spoon to spread it outwards in a thin, even layer. Remember, a light hand with the sauce is key to avoiding a soggy pizza.
4. Top the Pizza: For a classic Margherita, add fresh mozzarella slices, a few fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. For other variations, add your preferred toppings, but keep them simple and minimal.
5. Bake the Pizza: Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and slightly charred in spots, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Serve Immediately: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven, slice it, and serve immediately. Enjoy the fresh, authentic flavors of your homemade Neapolitan pizza!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Neapolitan pizza sauce is simple, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-Pureeing the Tomatoes: Crushing the tomatoes too much can result in a watery sauce. Aim for a chunky texture with small tomato pieces.
• Over-Seasoning: The simplicity of this sauce means that it’s easy to overdo the seasoning. Start with a small amount of salt and adjust to taste.
• Using the Wrong Tomatoes: Regular canned tomatoes or tomato sauce won’t give you the same authentic flavor as San Marzano tomatoes. If possible, always use DOP-certified San Marzano tomatoes.
• Adding Too Many Ingredients: The beauty of Neapolitan pizza sauce is in its simplicity. Avoid adding too many herbs or spices, as this can overpower the delicate tomato flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Neapolitan Pizza Sauce

Here are some additional tips to help you create the perfect Neapolitan pizza sauce:

• Use Fresh Tomatoes in Season: If you have access to fresh San Marzano tomatoes during their peak season, use them instead of canned. Simply blanch, peel, and crush the tomatoes before seasoning.
• Store the Sauce Properly: If you make the sauce ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before using.
• Adjust the Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, you can thin it slightly with a tablespoon of water. If it’s too thin, let it sit for a while, and some of the excess liquid will evaporate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular canned tomatoes instead of San Marzano tomatoes?

While you can use regular canned tomatoes, the flavor won’t be as authentic or rich as when using San Marzano tomatoes. If possible, opt for DOP-certified San Marzano tomatoes for the best results.

2. Can I cook the sauce if I prefer a cooked flavor?

Traditional Neapolitan pizza sauce is uncooked to preserve the fresh taste of the tomatoes. However, if you prefer a cooked flavor, you can simmer the sauce on low heat for 10-15 minutes before using it.

3. How much sauce should I use on a Neapolitan pizza?

Less is more with Neapolitan pizza sauce. Typically, 2-3 tablespoons of sauce are enough for a 10-12 inch pizza. The sauce should be spread thinly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

4. Can I freeze Neapolitan pizza sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before using.

5. What other dishes can I use this sauce for?

This sauce is versatile and can be used for other dishes like pasta, bruschetta, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. However, its uncooked nature makes it best suited for pizza.

Conclusion

Authentic Neapolitan pizza sauce is a celebration of simplicity and quality ingredients. With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can create a sauce that perfectly complements the thin, airy crust of a Neapolitan pizza. Whether you’re making a classic Margherita or your own variation, this sauce is sure to bring a true taste of Naples to your kitchen. So grab some San Marzano tomatoes, roll out your dough, and get ready to enjoy the flavors of Italy with every bite!

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