Classic Marinara Sauce

This Classic Marinara Sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. With fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, it’s a delicious and versatile sauce to have on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook Onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes

4. Prepare Tomatoes: Crush the whole peeled tomatoes with your hands or a potato masher and add them to the saucepan with their juices.
5. Season: Stir in the sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Simmer

6. Cook Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

Blend (Optional)

7. Blend Sauce: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a blender and blend in batches.

Finish with Fresh Herbs

8. Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve

9. Enjoy: Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or enjoy it as a dipping sauce with breadsticks.

Notes

• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and add a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar if you like a richer flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just peel, chop, and cook them down to get the same consistency.
2. Can I use this sauce for pizza?
   Absolutely! This marinara sauce is perfect as a pizza sauce.
3. How can I make this sauce spicier?
   Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
4. Can I freeze marinara sauce?
   Yes, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
5. How can I make this sauce smoother?
   Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the sauce until smooth.
6. Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
   Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for extra flavor.
7. What type of tomatoes are best for marinara sauce?
   Whole peeled tomatoes are best, but crushed tomatoes or tomato puree can also be used.
8. How long can I store marinara sauce in the refrigerator?
   It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
9. Can I use this sauce for a meat sauce?
   Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or meatballs to the marinara for a hearty meat sauce.
10. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, it’s a great make-ahead option. Just reheat it before serving.

Conclusion

This Classic Marinara Sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re topping a plate of pasta, spreading it on a pizza, or dipping breadsticks, this sauce will enhance your meals with its rich and savory taste. Enjoy making and sharing this homemade sauce with family and friends!

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