How to Make Salsa alla Sorrentina: A Taste of the Amalfi Coast

Salsa alla Sorrentina is a vibrant and flavorful Italian tomato sauce hailing from the beautiful Amalfi Coast, specifically Sorrento, Italy. Unlike its more robust cousin, Arrabbiata sauce, Salsa alla Sorrentina embraces simplicity and freshness, allowing the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes to shine through. This sauce is incredibly versatile, perfect for pairing with pasta, seafood, or simply enjoyed as a dip for crusty bread. Today, we’ll unlock the secrets to crafting this Italian classic in your own kitchen.

The Ingredients: A Symphony of Freshness

The beauty of Salsa alla Sorrentina lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes: Choose tomatoes that are in season for the most vibrant flavor. San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweetness and low acidity, are traditionally used.
• 6 cloves garlic: Freshly minced, because there’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic simmering in olive oil.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of any good Italian sauce. Opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: The soul of Salsa alla Sorrentina, basil adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful aroma.

Supporting Ingredients:

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) for a touch of heat

The Toolkit: Simple Tools for a Delicious Outcome

You don’t need fancy equipment to create this Italian masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A large pot: To blanch and peel the tomatoes.
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• A wooden spoon: For stirring and infusing the sauce with love.

Crafting Your Salsa alla Sorrentina: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato.
3. Carefully lower the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, or until the skins start to peel back.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of ice water to cool.
5. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and discard.
6. Roughly chop the tomatoes and set aside.

Step 2: Building the Sauce

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
5. While the sauce simmers, stack the basil leaves and roll them tightly together. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the basil roll to create ribbons.

Step 3: The Finishing Touch

1. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the fresh basil ribbons.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Salsa alla Sorrentina

• Tomato Selection is Key: For the most authentic flavor, use San Marzano tomatoes. If you can’t find them, choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes that are in season.
• Don’t Overscook the Garlic: Burnt garlic will make your sauce bitter. Cook it just until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Basil Goes in Last: Adding the basil at the end preserves its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until desired consistency is reached.

Serving Suggestions: A Taste of Italy

Salsa alla Sorrentina is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with:

• Classic Pasta Dishes: Toss it with spaghetti, penne, or gnocchi for a simple yet satisfying meal.
• Seafood: Its fresh flavors complement grilled fish, shrimp, or scallops beautifully.
• Crusty Bread: Serve it as a dip for toasted baguette slices or Italian bread.

Preserving the Goodness: Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftover Salsa alla Sorrentina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Flavors of Sorrento

Creating your own Salsa alla Sorrentina is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of the Amalfi Coast in your own home. So grab your apron, embrace the joy of cooking, and savor the deliciousness that awaits!

Fresh Ingredients for Salsa alla Sorrentina

Simmering Salsa alla Sorrentina

Salsa alla Sorrentina with Pasta