Looking to elevate your pasta dishes? This homemade marinara sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition that can transform any meal. With fresh ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a sauce that rivals any restaurant’s. Perfect for spaghetti, lasagna, or as a dipping sauce, this marinara is a must-have in your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of marinara sauce (approximately 1/2 cup) contains about 80 calories, 4g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. This nutritional breakdown is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Add dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to customize your marinara sauce! You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Marinara sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti, meatballs, or as a base for pizza. It can also be served alongside garlic bread or used as a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much salt can overpower the sauce; season gradually.
- Burning the garlic will create a bitter taste; sauté it briefly.
- Not simmering long enough may result in bland flavor; allow time for flavors to develop.
- Using low-quality tomatoes can affect the overall taste; choose good quality canned tomatoes.
- Skipping the herbs can lead to a lack of depth in flavor; don’t overlook them.
Helpful Tips
- For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender after cooking.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Make a big batch and freeze in portions for quick meals.
- Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of red wine while simmering.
FAQs
What is the best type of tomato for marinara sauce?
Roma tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for marinara sauce due to their low moisture content and rich flavor.
Can I make marinara sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinara sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.
How long does homemade marinara sauce last?
Homemade marinara sauce can last about a week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer if stored properly.
Is marinara sauce healthy?
Yes, marinara sauce is generally healthy, low in calories, and made with natural ingredients. It’s a great option for many diets.
Can I use marinara sauce for pizza?
Yes! Marinara sauce makes a fantastic base for pizza, adding rich flavor to your favorite toppings.
Conclusion
Marinara sauce is a versatile and essential recipe that every home cook should master. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a simple pasta dinner or preparing a feast, this marinara sauce will surely impress your family and friends.
Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans 14 oz each crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Add dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes.
- Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
