Description
This Homemade Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce made from scratch using fresh ingredients and simple seasonings. It’s perfect for pasta, pizza, meatballs, or as a versatile base for many dishes. The sauce simmers gently on the stovetop, allowing the flavors to develop into a rich and savory blend, enhanced by herbs like oregano and basil. It’s a vegan, gluten-free, and wholesome option for your kitchen staples.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinara Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Onion: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped small onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it releases its aroma but doesn’t brown, enhancing the sauce’s richness.
- Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the tomato components evenly.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and optional ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild heat. If desired, add 1 teaspoon sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasonings and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Before serving, garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- This marinara sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- It freezes well, lasting up to 3 months when stored properly in an airtight container.
- Use it as a base for a variety of dishes including pasta, pizza, meatballs, or lasagna.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- The sugar is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a more natural tomato flavor.
