Marinara Sauce

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful sauce to elevate your dishes, look no further than marinara sauce. This Italian classic is not only versatile but also quick to prepare, making it a staple in many kitchens. With a rich tomato base, aromatic herbs, and a hint of garlic, marinara sauce can transform any meal into a delightful experience. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta or using it as a pizza base, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of marinara sauce (approximately 1/4 of the recipe) contains about 120 calories, 6g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan.
5. Sprinkle in dried oregano and sugar to balance acidity.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat.
8. Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Adjust seasonings as needed, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
10. Remove from heat and serve garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned if you prefer a fresher taste. Additionally, using fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried can enhance the flavor, though adjustments in quantity may be necessary.

Serving and Pairings

Marinara sauce is perfect with spaghetti, lasagna, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. It also pairs well with grilled vegetables, chicken, or fish for a delightful meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using low-quality tomatoes can affect flavor.
• Overcooking garlic can make it bitter.
• Not simmering long enough can result in a raw taste.
• Forget to taste and adjust seasonings.
• Skipping the sugar can lead to overly acidic sauce.

Helpful Tips

• For a smoother sauce, blend it after cooking.
• Add a splash of red wine for depth of flavor.
• Include vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning.

FAQs

What is the best tomato for marinara sauce?

San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the best for marinara sauce due to their sweetness and low acidity. Canned versions are readily available and make for a convenient option.

Can I make marinara sauce in advance?

Yes, marinara sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This allows flavors to meld and improves taste.

How long does marinara sauce last in the fridge?

Homemade marinara sauce can last up to 5 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is marinara sauce vegan?

Yes, traditional marinara sauce is vegan, as it typically consists of tomatoes, herbs, and spices without any animal products.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of marinara sauce. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

Conclusion

Marinara sauce is a timeless classic that offers a burst of flavor to various dishes. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-have in every kitchen. By following this recipe, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy it with your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for other culinary creations!

Marinara Sauce

A classic marinara sauce that is rich and flavorful, perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, and more.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: marinara sauce, Italian sauce, tomato sauce, easy recipes

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Red pepper flakes optional
• Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
• Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan.
• Sprinkle in dried oregano and sugar to balance acidity.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat.
• Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Adjust seasonings as needed, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
• Remove from heat and serve garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 2g