Italiano Marinara
A rich and flavorful Italian marinara sauce with fresh herbs and garlic, perfect for pasta lovers seeking a hearty, homemade tomato-based dish suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart saucepan, heat oil and cook onion and garlic until tender, but not brown.
- Stir in tomatoes with liquid, parsley, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally to break up tomatoes, for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones in a pinch, though the flavor may be less vibrant. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. This marinara is versatile and can be used in various Italian recipes, such as Pizza Piena or served over pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with rice dishes like Rice With Lemon or can be used as a base for Italian Tomato Pie. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also freeze the marinara for up to 3 months; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italiano Marinara contains roughly 396 calories, with 13g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (180% of the Daily Value), iron (141% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2092mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2.5 to 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes will yield the same amount of sauce. Blanch and peel them first, then chop and use in place of canned tomatoes, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this marinara sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes to taste while the sauce simmers. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your heat preference. You can also consider adding sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This marinara sauce is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike. Just ensure that the pasta you choose is egg-free if you're aiming for a vegan dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).