Name: Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe: Rich and Tangy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 28 oz cans whole peeled tomatoes, crushed; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); Optional: Fresh basil leaves; Suggested Pairings: Pasta (red wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Homemade Marinara Sauce is a classic, versatile Italian sauce, perfect for pasta dishes, pizza, or dipping. This rich, tangy sauce, featuring ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, delivers authentic, savory flavors in every spoonful. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with fresh basil leaves, this Marinara Sauce offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing sauce that brings hearty, Italian charm to any meal.

Ingredients

For the Homemade Marinara Sauce:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (28 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand or blended
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh basil leaves
Suggested Accompaniments: Pasta, garlic bread, meatballs
Suggested Pairings: Red wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large saucepan, wooden spoon, blender (optional), knife, cutting board, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust with additional salt, sugar, or herbs to ensure a balanced flavor.
Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh basil and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. If a smoother texture is desired, blend the sauce using an immersion blender or in batches with a standard blender.
Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic bowl, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, meatballs, red wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Homemade Marinara Sauce

Use high-quality canned tomatoes (e.g., San Marzano) for a richer, sweeter flavor.
Taste the sauce before simmering to balance tanginess, sweetness, and savory notes, as tomato acidity varies.
Simmer on low heat to deepen flavors without reducing the sauce too quickly.
Blend for a smooth texture or leave chunky for a rustic style, depending on preference.
Use a white ceramic bowl for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the red sauce and green basil.
Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic bowl with fresh basil leaves for a bright, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Marinara Sauce: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients (e.g., tomato paste) are certified gluten-free.
Low-Sodium Marinara Sauce: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and use low-sodium canned tomatoes.
Spicy Marinara Sauce: Increase red pepper flakes to 1 tsp or add a diced fresh chili.
Vegan Marinara Sauce: Naturally vegan; confirm all ingredients are plant-based.
Herb-Infused Marinara: Add 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary during simmering for extra depth.
Meat Marinara Sauce: Brown 1/2 lb ground beef or Italian sausage with the onions for a hearty version.
Roasted Garlic Marinara: Replace raw garlic with 6 roasted garlic cloves for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Vegetable Marinara: Add 1 cup diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers with the onions for a chunkier sauce.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring well.
Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Use as a sauce for pasta, pizza, lasagna, or a dip for breadsticks.
Pair with garlic bread or meatballs to complement the rich, tangy flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic bowl with vibrant basil garnishes for a bright, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1/2 cup each):

Calories: 90 kcal
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 450mg
Total Carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand and tomato type. Moderate in sodium; try the low-sodium variation. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Homemade Marinara Sauce recipe offers a rich, tangy sauce, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into an Italian classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The robust tomato flavor and fresh herbs delight every spoonful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its versatile, authentic appeal.