Marinara sauce is a vibrant, zesty delight that transforms any dish into a culinary masterpiece! Picture ripe, juicy tomatoes simmering with fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes for that perfect kick. This easy-to-make sauce is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly versatile—perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce. With no pork or wine, we use vegetable broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar to elevate the taste. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this comforting, homemade marinara sauce!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy recipe that anyone can master!
- Made with fresh ingredients for a vibrant, homemade taste.
- Versatile enough to pair with pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
- Perfect for meal prep—store it for later and enjoy anytime!
- Customizable to suit your taste—add your favorite herbs and spices!
marinara sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather your ingredients: fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic while your tomatoes cool down.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Remove the skins from the cooled tomatoes and chop them into small pieces.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, along with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Give your sauce a taste! Adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or herbs.
- Serve your marinara sauce over pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 7g | 3g | 20g |
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Sauce |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 40 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Serves: | 4-6 |
| Best Served: | Pasta, Pizza, Dipping |
Ingredients
- Olive Oil – A healthy fat that adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for a robust flavor that enhances the sauce.
- Onion – Diced to provide sweetness and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Canned Tomatoes – Use whole or crushed for a rich tomato base; San Marzano is a great choice.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the sauce.
- Dried Oregano – A classic Italian herb that brings warmth and earthiness.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a touch of heat to spice things up.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
- Sugar – A pinch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious marinara sauce that will make your taste buds dance!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Prep the Tomatoes
Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
Dice the onion and mince the garlic while your tomatoes cool down.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Step 5: Peel and Chop the Tomatoes
Remove the skins from the cooled tomatoes and chop them into small pieces.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, along with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust
Give your sauce a taste! Adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or herbs.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your marinara sauce over pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Opt for crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture; they blend beautifully.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if your tomatoes are too tart.
- Simmer the sauce longer for deeper flavors; patience pays off!
- For a touch of sweetness, consider adding grated carrots or bell peppers.
How to Serve
Here are some fun and delicious ways to enjoy your marinara sauce:
- Serve it over al dente spaghetti for a classic dish.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or breadsticks.
- Top your favorite pizza with a generous layer of marinara.
- Mix it into a hearty vegetable lasagna for extra flavor.
- Pair it with grilled chicken or eggplant for a tasty protein boost.
- Stir it into risotto for a rich, tomato-infused twist.
- Use it as a base for a savory shakshuka with poached eggs.
- Drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a zesty finish.
- Combine it with quinoa and veggies for a healthy bowl.
- Serve it alongside meatballs made with turkey or lentils for a lighter option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow marinara sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add a splash of water or broth for desired consistency.
FAQs
What can I use instead of wine in marinara sauce?
You can use vegetable broth or a splash of vinegar mixed with water as a great substitute for wine. This will add depth without the alcohol, keeping the flavor profile rich and satisfying.
How can I make my marinara sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste for extra thickness and richness.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can be used, but be sure to blanch and peel them first. This will give your sauce a fresh taste that’s perfect for summer cooking.
How long can I store marinara sauce?
Your marinara sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in airtight containers for up to three months.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your very own marinara sauce that’s bursting with flavor and love! It’s so simple to whip up, and the aroma will take you back to cozy family dinners. So grab your favorite pasta, pour on that rich sauce, and savor every bite. Cooking should be fun, and this recipe is a delightful way to bring a little joy to your kitchen. Enjoy!
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