Description
Marinara sauce is a vibrant, tomato-based sauce originating from Italy, combining fresh ingredients like garlic, onions, and herbs for a quick yet deeply satisfying pasta topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or as a comforting homemade meal. Easily paired with pasta, pizza, meatballs, or vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– ½ cup chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes (substitute low-sodium versions if needed)
– ½ tsp dried oregano
– ½ tsp sea salt
– ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, finely minced (substitute dried herbs if needed)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until soft and golden (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat and simmer partially covered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in fresh basil or parsley, then turn off the heat. Garnish with additional herbs before serving.
Notes
– Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for maximum flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.
– Store sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid boiling if possible to preserve texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: ~70
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg