passata

Passata

Passata is a smooth, uncooked tomato purée that's strained to remove seeds and skin, resulting in a silky texture and vibrant red color. This versatile Italian staple boasts a fresh, clean tomato flavor, making it an excellent base for sauces, soups, and stews. Unlike tomato paste, passata is lighter and less concentrated, offering a bright, naturally sweet taste ideal for creating authentic Italian dishes. Discover the best passata for pizza sauce, passata recipes for pasta, and how to use passata instead of crushed tomatoes.

Common Uses

  • Creating a Quick and Flavorful Tomato Sauce: Use passata as a base for a simple tomato sauce by gently simmering it with garlic, herbs (like basil and oregano), and olive oil. This provides a fresh and vibrant flavor that's perfect for pasta dishes or as a topping for pizza. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat to your homemade passata tomato sauce.
  • Elevating Soups and Stews: Add passata to soups and stews to enhance their tomato flavor and create a smoother, richer texture. It seamlessly blends into broths and provides a consistent tomato base, contributing a bright and fresh taste without the need for extensive cooking. Ideal for adding body to lentil soups or vegetable stews.
  • Making Authentic Pizza Sauce: Spread passata directly onto pizza dough for a simple yet flavorful pizza sauce. Its smooth consistency ensures even coverage, and its fresh tomato taste complements various toppings. Enhance it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper for the best passata for pizza.
  • Preparing Cold Tomato-Based Drinks and Gazpacho: Passata can be used as the base for cold tomato-based drinks, like Bloody Marys, or chilled soups like gazpacho. Its smooth texture blends easily with other ingredients, creating a refreshing and flavorful beverage or appetizer. Adjust the seasoning with lime juice, hot sauce, and spices to taste.
  • Using as a Base for Shakshuka: Instead of using diced tomatoes, simmer passata with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder for a quicker and smoother base to your Shakshuka recipe. This allows the flavors to meld easily while creating a rich, vibrant sauce for poaching eggs.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

30.0kcal (1.5%)

Protein

1.6g (3.2%)

Carbs

6.3g (2.29%)

Sugars

4.2g (8.4%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers.
  • Good source of Vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
  • Provides dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
  • Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
  • Contains potassium, contributing to healthy blood pressure levels.
  • A good source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A and iron.

Storage Tips

Unopened passata can be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry, at room temperature until its expiration date. Once opened, transfer any unused passata to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. It should be used within 3-5 days for optimal freshness. Passata can also be frozen for longer storage; pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace, and it can last for several months.

Make money with your recipes.

Cook, Share, and Earn - get started today!

Background Squiggy
Chefadora App

Get cooking with the Chefadora App.

Available now for early access users.

Download on the App StoreDownload on the App Store
chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia