Marinara Sauce Recipe

Here's a simple and classic Marinara Sauce recipe, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.

Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano recommended) <--------

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 4-5 fresh basil leaves)

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • 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 garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the Tomatoes:

   • Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices. If you prefer a smoother sauce, crush the tomatoes with your hands before adding them or use a blender to blend the sauce later.

3. Season the Sauce:

   • Add the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance it out.

4. Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, breaking down the tomatoes with a wooden spoon.

5. Blend (Optional):

   • For a smoother marinara, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot. For a chunkier texture, leave it as is.

6. Finish and Serve:

   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.

   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Tips:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Serving Ideas: Serve over pasta, use as a pizza sauce, or pair it with meatballs. It’s also great as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks.

• Enhancements: For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers or sprinkle in some Parmesan cheese.

Would you like a suggestion for a dish that pairs well with this marinara sauce?