Stanley Tucci Shares His Simple Tomato Sauce Recipe

NEW YORK, NY — Actor and cookbook author Stanley Tucci has unveiled his go-to tomato sauce recipe in a recent Instagram post, demonstrating a method that emphasizes simplicity and fresh ingredients. The recipe is aimed at those looking to create a versatile sauce using basic techniques.

In the video, Tucci begins by addressing a batch of cherry tomatoes that are nearing spoilage. Instead of using them whole or laboriously deseeding, he proposes a clever shortcut: cut the tomatoes in half, soak them in water, and squeeze out the seeds. “All the seeds come out,” Tucci explains, streamlining the preparation process.

After preparing the tomatoes, he sweats Tropea onions, yellow onions, and garlic in extra-virgin olive oil, stating, “Once the alliums have started to soften, I’m going to take all these nice tomatoes and stick them right in there.” He then adds the cherry tomatoes to the large pan.

Tucci emphasizes the importance of salting the tomatoes generously as they cook. In a twist, he uses an immersion blender to break down the skins if the tomatoes are tough, though he notes that tender, fresh tomatoes may not require this step.

Next, he incorporates two cans of whole, peeled Campania tomatoes, recommending smaller 14-ounce containers. With a few torn basil leaves added for freshness, he starts crushing the tomatoes with a wooden spoon. The sauce is left to simmer, with Tucci pointing out that leaving the lid off can result in a more concentrated flavor.

As the sauce thickens, Tucci adds a drizzle of olive oil and more basil for finishing touches. He remarks, “You can do whatever you want with this sauce,” suggesting options like shrimp or peas for added variety. “I make a batch all the time, and then I put it in the fridge, and I use it for different things,” he shared.

This recipe not only showcases Tucci’s culinary skills but also encourages home cooks to be creative with their versions. For those eager to replicate his kitchen prowess, keeping a batch of this tomato sauce on hand could make weekday meals easier and more flavorful.