Smoky Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce on the Arteflame

Introduction

Cooking Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce on the Arteflame grill adds a subtle smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the rich combination of tomatoes, garlic, and butter. This sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, tossing with pasta, or using as a dipping sauce for bread.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional to balance acidity)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for added richness)
• Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting the Arteflame grill with oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the flat-top surface is hot and ready for cooking.

2. Sauté the Garlic

Place the butter directly on the flat-top surface of the Arteflame and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté on the flat-top for about 1-2 minutes, using a spatula to move the garlic around until it's fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as the flat-top gets very hot near the center.

3. Add the Tomatoes

Once the garlic is golden and aromatic, add the diced fresh tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) directly to the flat-top. Stir the tomatoes and garlic together with a spatula, letting the tomatoes break down and cook for 5-7 minutes.

4. Season the Sauce

Stir in the sugar (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer on the flat-top, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and the sauce thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes.

5. Add Fresh Basil and Olive Oil

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, stir in the chopped fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Allow the basil to wilt and infuse the sauce with flavor for an additional 1-2 minutes.

6. Serve

Use a spatula to transfer the sauce into a serving bowl. Serve immediately over grilled chicken, steak, pasta, or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Making Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce on the Arteflame

• Control the heat: Move the sauce around the flat-top to manage heat. If it gets too hot, shift the ingredients to the cooler outer edges.
• Watch the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly on the flat-top, so be careful not to let it burn. Keep it moving with a spatula.
• Add extras: Feel free to add grilled vegetables like zucchini or peppers to the sauce for more flavor and texture.

Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier sauce.
2. Herb Garlic Butter Sauce: Add fresh oregano or thyme alongside basil for a more herbaceous flavor.
3. Creamy Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce: Stir in a bit of heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
4. Cheesy Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce: Mix in grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a richer, cheesy version.
5. Smoky Paprika Sauce: Add smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.

Best Pairings

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Grilled shrimp or fish
• Pasta or grain bowls
• Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
• Toasted bread or garlic bread

Conclusion

Cooking Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce on the Arteflame adds a smoky, flame-kissed flavor that elevates the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the butter. This sauce is a delicious addition to any grilled meal, bringing a burst of fresh, tangy flavor with every bite.