Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is a timeless Italian staple that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, using it as a pizza base, or serving it with meatballs, this vibrant sauce is sure to delight. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, marinara sauce is both versatile and satisfying. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your family and friends with this homemade recipe that captures the essence of Italian cooking.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on a serving size of 1/4 of the recipe, the nutritional value per serving is approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Protein: 3g
– Fiber: 3g
This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine.
5. Add sugar, oregano, and basil; mix thoroughly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, reducing heat to low.
8. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Adjust seasoning if necessary and add fresh basil leaves just before serving.
10. Serve hot over your favorite pasta or use it in other dishes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned ones if preferred. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re looking for a vegan option, ensure the sugar used is unrefined, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
Serving and Pairings
Marinara sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it over spaghetti, use it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or layer it in lasagna. It also complements grilled vegetables and can be used as a base for seafood dishes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid burning the garlic; add it after the onions are semi-translucent.
– Don’t rush the simmering process; allow the flavors to develop.
– Adjust seasoning gradually; taste as you go.
– Use good quality tomatoes for better flavor.
– Avoid overcooking; it can lead to a bitter taste.
Helpful Tips
– Fresh herbs can elevate the sauce; consider adding parsley or thyme.
– For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine while simmering.
– Keep the sauce slightly chunky for better texture.
– Experiment with different spices like thyme or rosemary for variety.
FAQs
What tomatoes are best for marinara sauce?
San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the ideal choice due to their rich flavor and low acidity. However, any canned or fresh tomatoes can work well.
Can I make marinara sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinara sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Is marinara sauce spicy?
Traditionally, marinara sauce is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
Can I use marinara sauce for pizza?
Yes, marinara sauce makes an excellent base for pizza. Spread it on the dough before adding toppings for a delicious flavor.
How do I thicken marinara sauce?
To thicken marinara sauce, simmer it uncovered to reduce excess liquid, or add a small amount of tomato paste for extra thickness.
Conclusion
Homemade marinara sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. With fresh ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious sauce that enhances any meal. Whether enjoyed with pasta, as a pizza base, or simply as a dip, marinara sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- 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 minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine.
- Add sugar, oregano, and basil; mix thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, reducing heat to low.
- Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and add fresh basil leaves just before serving.
- Serve hot over your favorite pasta or use it in other dishes.
