This quick and easy tomato sauce is the base for two meals: spaghetti marinara and steamed mussels with tomato broth.
We call for canned tomatoes because most of the fresh ones available in the wintertime have a bland flavor and mealy texture.
Sugar will help round out the flavor if your tomatoes are too acidic. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like your sauce to have a bit of heat.
The leftover sauce also freezes well for future meals.
Cooks' note:
• Sauce can be made 5 days ahead and cooled, uncovered, then chilled, covered.
• Sauce can be frozen in an airtight container 3 months.