There’s something awesome about a tasty marinara sauce cooking on the stove. It fills your kitchen with the yummy smell of ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs. You can mix it with spaghetti, use it in lasagna, or dip mozzarella sticks in it. Homemade marinara makes every dish better.
This recipe is my favorite because it’s easy to make and super delicious. With just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a sauce as good as one from an Italian restaurant. It’s also great for making ahead and freezing for later.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps to make an amazing marinara sauce. I’ll share tips to make it perfect and give you nutrition facts so you know what’s in it. Whether you’re new to cooking or already good at it, this recipe is simple and fun. Let’s get started and make your next pasta night awesome.
See also: Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Why This Marinara Sauce Stands Out
Marinara sauce is a classic in Italian food because it’s simple and full of flavor. Unlike store-bought sauces that can be too sweet or have weird stuff in them, this homemade version uses fresh, healthy ingredients. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with good stuff from tomatoes, like antioxidants that keep you healthy.
Making it yourself lets you choose how it tastes. This recipe has a mix of tangy, savory, and a tiny bit of sweet, so it works for pasta, pizza, or even soups.
If you want to stay healthy, try pairing this sauce with meals that help you manage your weight. A supplement like NuviaLab Sugar Control can help keep your blood sugar steady, which goes great with this low-sugar sauce..
Ingredients for the Best Marinara Sauce
To create a marinara sauce that’s both delicious and authentic, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
Pro Tip: Using high-quality San Marzano tomatoes makes a noticeable difference. They’re sweeter and less acidic, giving your sauce a restaurant-quality taste.
For those focused on overall health, incorporating Fibre Select into your routine can enhance digestion, ensuring your body efficiently processes nutrient-rich meals like this marinara sauce.
See also: Easy Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
To make this marinara sauce, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. Here’s what I recommend, with links to reliable options:
- Large saucepan: For simmering the sauce evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Chef’s knife: For chopping the onion and garlic.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prep work.
- Immersion blender (optional): For a smoother sauce texture.
- Can opener: To open the canned tomatoes.
Having the right tools makes cooking a breeze and ensures your sauce comes out perfectly every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a marinara sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The process is straightforward, and the result is a sauce you’ll want to make again and again.
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the two cans of whole peeled tomatoes, including their juice. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to gently crush the tomatoes as you add them to the pan. This creates a rustic texture that’s perfect for marinara.
Step 3: Season the Sauce
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add 1 teaspoon of sugar if your tomatoes are particularly acidic. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and balsamic vinegar (if using) just before removing the sauce from the heat. The fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic note, while the balsamic vinegar enhances the sauce’s depth.
Pro Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too tangy, a pinch more sugar can balance it out.
See also: Easy Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 1/2 Cup)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on specific brands and ingredient quantities. For those aiming to manage their weight, Keto Actives can support fat metabolism, making it easier to enjoy this sauce as part of a balanced diet.
Tips for Perfecting Your Marinara Sauce
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to balance acidity and seasoning.
- Simmer Low and Slow: A longer simmer (up to 45 minutes) deepens the flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Marinara tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Freeze for Later: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
To enhance your overall health while enjoying delicious meals, try Collagen Select to support skin, hair, and nail health, complementing the nutrient-packed tomatoes in this recipe.
Ways to Use Marinara Sauce
This versatile sauce can be used in countless dishes:
- Toss with spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
- Use as a pizza sauce base.
- Layer in lasagna or baked ziti.
- Serve as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or mozzarella sticks.
- Add to soups or stews for a tomatoey boost.
For those on a ketogenic diet, pair this sauce with zucchini noodles and consider NuviaLab Keto to support ketosis and energy levels.
See also: One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months.
Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it.
FAQs About Marinara Sauce Recipe
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use about 4 pounds of fresh, ripe tomatoes. Blanch and peel them first, then chop and use as directed. Fresh tomatoes may require a longer simmer to reach the desired consistency.
2. How can I make the sauce less acidic?
Add a pinch of sugar or a small amount of grated carrot during cooking to balance acidity naturally.
3. Is this marinara sauce vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
4. Can I make this sauce in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a deeply flavorful sauce.
5. How can I add a protein boost to this sauce?
Stir in cooked ground beef, sausage, or lentils for added protein. For a plant-based option, try Moringa Actives to support metabolism and reduce hunger.
See also: Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Conclusion
This marinara sauce is an easy way to make your meals taste amazing. With just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes, you can make a sauce that’s great for pasta, pizza, and more. The tomatoes, herbs, and a bit of balsamic vinegar give it a super yummy flavor. It’s healthy and works for lots of diets too.
If you want to stay fit, try Fat Burn Active to help your body burn fat. Whether you’re cooking for your family or saving some for later, this sauce will be a hit. Make it today and enjoy homemade Italian flavor.
Looking for more classic Italian pasta recipes? Here are a few of my faves:
