
A rich, garlicky tomato sauce is one of those kitchen staples that feels indulgent but is actually built from a handful of clean, simple ingredients. This version leans on San Marzano tomatoes, good olive oil, fresh basil, and a little heat from red pepper flakes โ nothing hidden, nothing processed, nothing that should raise a red flag for anyone navigating a candida-conscious way of eating. The optional pinch of sugar is just that โ optional โ so you can leave it out entirely if you're keeping things strict. Slow-simmering the garlic in olive oil before the tomatoes go in is what gives this sauce its depth, coaxing out a mellow, savory sweetness without any shortcuts. After about 20 minutes on the stove, you get a sauce that's thick enough to cling to whatever you're serving it with, but still bright and fresh-tasting. It's the kind of base recipe you'll come back to again and again, whether you're spooning it over zucchini noodles, roasted vegetables, or a simple protein.
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granulated sugar

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until it shimmers. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden at the edges, about 2โ3 minutes. Watch closely โ garlic can brown quickly and will turn bitter.
Pour the canned tomatoes and their juices into the pan. Using a potato masher or fork, crush the tomatoes into rough, uneven pieces directly in the pan.
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