When it comes to Italian recipes, few are as loved as marinara sauce. This classic sauce is a staple in many kitchens, pairing perfectly with pasta, pizza, and more. It’s incredibly versatile and can be whipped up with just a few ingredients that you likely have in your pantry.
Marinara sauce is not just about tomatoes; it’s about how those tomatoes blend with garlic, herbs, and olive oil. Authentic Italian marinara relies on quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, which bring a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
From stewed to smooth, each region in Italy might have its version, but the core idea remains the same: simplicity leads to deliciousness.
When you make your own marinara sauce, you have complete control over its texture and taste. I remember the first time I tried making marinara from scratch—it transformed my dinners. You can keep it chunky or blend it into a smooth purée if that’s more your style. Making your own marinara sauce is about embracing the simplicity of quality ingredients and enjoying the process that brings a touch of Italy right to your table.
Why You Will Love Marinara Sauce Recipe
You’ll adore making marinara sauce because it’s super simple. Just gather tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, and you’ll whip up a delicious sauce in no time. This recipe uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
The flavor is another reason this sauce will win you over. It brings a taste of Italy to your plate. Whether you’re making pasta, pizza, or using it as a dip, the taste is incredible and authentic.
Another great thing? You can make it in one pot. This means minimal cleanup, and you can focus more on enjoying your meal. It’s a perfect choice for busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of work.
Finally, you can adjust the flavors to your liking. Add more garlic or herbs, or keep it simple—it’s up to you. This flexibility means you can create a sauce that suits your taste every time.
How to Make Marinara Sauce Recipe
Creating your own homemade marinara sauce is a rewarding process that requires a few key ingredients and tools. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious sauce to pair with your favorite pasta dish.
Ingredients
To make a rich marinara sauce, you’ll need several basic ingredients. Start with canned whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, for their sweet, tender flesh.
Next, have some extra-virgin olive oil ready for sautéing.
Don’t forget about the flavor enhancers: minced garlic, diced onions, and fresh basil are essential. Use dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of kosher salt to add depth to the sauce.
Sweeten things up with a spoonful of sugar, and for a thicker consistency, a little tomato paste might be necessary.
Instruments
You’ll need a few essential tools to prepare the sauce efficiently. A large skillet or saucepan is crucial for cooking ingredients evenly.
Use a wooden spoon to stir and mash the tomatoes softly.
A sharp knife is necessary for dicing onions and mincing garlic. Grab a cutting board to ensure you have a safe and clean surface to work on.
Finally, a can opener will help you access those canned tomatoes quickly and a measuring spoon will keep your spice levels accurate.
Step By Step Instruction
Start by heating some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onions, sautéing until they become translucent.
Add minced garlic, being careful not to burn it, and cook for about a minute.
Add whole peeled tomatoes to the skillet, using your spoon to break them apart. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can mash the tomatoes beforehand.
Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, a pinch of kosher salt, and a bit of sugar.
Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Just before serving, stir in fresh basil for a burst of freshness. Optionally, finish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for added taste. Enjoy your homemade marinara with pasta or as a dip!
Tips & Tricks
Making homemade marinara sauce is simpler than you might think. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can achieve that authentic Italian flavor that elevates any pasta dish.
Ingredients Matter
- Use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for a rich, deep taste.
- Fresh garlic and basil are key for adding fresh aroma.
Quick Cooking
- You can prepare this sauce in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
- Don’t rush; let it simmer gently to allow flavors to merge.
Secrets of Flavor
- Add a splash of red wine to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- Try a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storing Your Sauce
- Freezer-Friendly: Marinara sauce can be frozen for up to 6 months, perfect for meal prepping.
- Store in airtight containers, cooling completely before freezing.
Experiment for Fun
- Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe with your favorite spices or herbs.
- Adding red pepper flakes can give it a spicy kick.
Ingredient Substitute
When you don’t have marinara sauce, there are several alternatives you can use. Each substitute offers a unique twist and can work in various recipes.
Tomato Sauce: This is a straightforward substitute. It’s made from puréed tomatoes and can taste similar to marinara if you add some garlic, onion, and herbs like basil.
Pizza Sauce: This sauce is thicker and usually has more seasoning. If you want it to be a bit thinner for your recipe, you can easily add a splash of water or a bit of olive oil.
Spaghetti Sauce: Often chunkier with added ingredients like vegetables or meat, you can use spaghetti sauce as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavors might be more complex than regular marinara.
Other Ideas:
- Crushed or Canned Tomatoes: These can serve as a base. Just spice them up with herbs for a quick fix.
- Jarred Spaghetti Sauce: Convenient and often just as tasty. A little adjustment with herbs and spices can tailor it to your preference.
Each option can bring a new dimension to your meal, ensuring your dishes don’t miss a beat even when you’re out of marinara.
What to Serve with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Looking for ideas to serve with marinara sauce? Pasta is the classic choice. Try it with spaghetti or go for a twist with ricotta gnocchi. The fluffy gnocchi absorb the rich flavors perfectly.
Chicken Parmesan is another great option. The crispy chicken, topped with melted cheese, complements the sauce beautifully.
For a vegetarian option, consider making eggplant parmesan. The soft eggplant and cheesy topping make it a must-try.
If you’re feeling adventurous, use marinara as a dip. It pairs wonderfully with breaded mozzarella sticks or even garlic bread. Imagine the gooey cheese and crunchy bread combining with the savory sauce.
On pizza night, a marinara base makes for a simple yet delicious choice. Top it with your favorite ingredients, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love.
Ravioli or manicotti also shine with marinara. Stuff these pasta varieties with cheese or spinach for a hearty dish that’s sure to please. The sauce adds a rich layer to these filled pastas.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Experiment and find your favorite!
Nutrition Fact in List Form
When it comes to marinara sauce, understanding its nutrition facts is simple. Here’s a quick look at what’s inside:
- Calories: Approximately 70-120 calories per ½ cup, depending on the brand you choose.
- Fat: Typically, 56-78% of calories come from fat. This translates to a moderate amount of fat in each serving.
- Protein: Usually, 3-8% of the calories in marinara sauce come from protein. Spread a little more cheese over pasta, and you’ll have a protein boost.
- Carbohydrates: Carbs make up around 19-25% of the calories. This includes naturally occurring sugars from the tomatoes.
- Dietary Fiber: Marinara sauce offers a small amount of fiber, which aids in digestion. A serving contains around 2 grams of fiber.
- Iron: This sauce may provide some iron, although it isn’t a major source. Check the label for exact values.
- Vitamin C: Tomatoes naturally have vitamin C, adding some to your meal. It’s a nice bonus from a tasty sauce.
- Calcium: Some brands might include calcium, but typically, it’s not significant. Adding cheese could up the calcium content.
- Potassium: You can find potassium in marinara sauce, which helps with muscle function. One serving offers about 8% of your daily value.
Classic Homemade Marinara Sauce
Equipment
- Large saucepan or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Blender (optional, for smooth texture)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes or fresh equivalent
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and sugar (if using).
- Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If a smoother texture is desired, blend the sauce using a hand blender.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
