Fresh Campari Tomato, Garlic and Herb Sauce

A fragrant blend of fresh Campari tomatoes, garlic, rosemary, and basil tossed with your favorite ravioli.

Sun-sweet tomatoes, silky olive oil, fragrant garlic, and a burst of basil—simple ingredients that taste like summer in every bite.

This bright, no-fuss Campari tomato sauce celebrates the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients. The secret is letting each element shine—sweet tomatoes, fragrant garlic, garden-fresh herbs, and good olive oil come together in perfect harmony. Whether you spoon it over pasta, pile it onto toasted bread for bruschetta, or use it as a base for your favorite Italian dishes, this versatile sauce brings that farm-fresh taste to your table.

For the pasta, go local if you can—your farmers market, an Italian specialty shop, or even the fresh pasta section at your neighborhood grocer. I’m serving this fragrant sauce over fresh Garlic–Basil Ravioli from my local farmers market, and it’s perfection.

It’s exactly the kind of recipe that pairs beautifully with a cozy evening and a good book—find my book pairing below to discover the perfect read to accompany this rustic Italian flavor.

Fresh Campari Tomato, Garlic and Herb Sauce

A light, rustic sauce with basil and rosemary—perfect for pasta, bruschetta, or any Italian dish

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups Campari tomatoes (about 2 lbs), seeded and roughly diced
• 1–2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, to taste
• 2–4 cloves garlic, chopped (use 2 if you prefer subtle garlic)
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1–2 small sprigs fresh rosemary (keep whole; remove before serving)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)

Can’t find Campari? Roma tomatoes are a great substitute—seed and chop them the same way.

Instructions

1. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, rosemary sprigs, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.
4. Simmer uncovered 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and the juices form a rustic sauce. (Tip: If your tomatoes are very juicy, simmer a few extra minutes to thicken.)
5. Remove and discard rosemary. Stir in chopped basil; taste and adjust salt, pepper, and olive oil. (Silkier texture? Mash lightly with a spoon or give 1–2 quick pulses with an immersion blender.)
6. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, or use as a bruschetta topping. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Fresh Campari Tomato, Garlic & Herb Sauce — a bright, simple homemade pasta recipe.

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Serving Suggestions

• Over Fresh Pasta: Toss with ravioli (some of my favorites—tomato basil, four cheese, or caprese), penne, or your favorite pasta. Finish with basil, a drizzle of EVOO, and freshly grated Parmesan.
• As Bruschetta: Spoon warm tomato mixture onto toasted baguette slices, drizzle with olive oil, and top with fresh basil.
• Pizza Base: Use as a light sauce for homemade pizza topped with fresh mozzarella and basil.
• With Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables for a fresh Mediterranean touch.

📚 Perfect Book Pairing

This rustic tomato sauce pairs beautifully with Beginning of Forever (D’Angelo #3)—both celebrate the magic that happens when simple, quality ingredients come together perfectly. The cozy Italian flavors match the warmth of family stories and second chances that define the D’Angelo series.

Explore More Book Pairings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh & simple: Sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rosemary do the heavy lifting.
• Incredibly versatile: Works as pasta sauce, bruschetta topping, pizza base, or side for grilled proteins.
• No heavy cream needed: Light and bright flavors that won’t weigh you down.
• Book-night ready: Cozy and elegant alongside your favorite Italian-inspired reads.

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