Karen'S Marinara Sauce
A flavorful, hearty marinara sauce with rich tomato flavors and garlic, perfect for pairing with pasta or bread, ideal for casual family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic and parsley flakes in oil.
- Add the cans of tomato sauces and diced tomato bits, then add sugar.
- Stir in tomato paste.
- Blend the mixture well, then heat thoroughly.
- Serve with French bread or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of red wine while cooking. Substitute fresh herbs like basil or oregano for the parsley flakes for a fresh taste. If you're looking for a thicker sauce, increase the amount of tomato paste or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce. This marinara is versatile and can be used in various Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This marinara sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, making it a perfect companion for spaghetti or lasagna. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal. For a quick appetizer, use it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. You can also try it with pizza made from the Guide To Modern Meals Pizza Dough(Another Foods Lab Special) for a delightful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Karen'S Marinara Sauce contains roughly 122 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 absolutely use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch and peel them before dicing, then add them to the sauce. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require longer cooking time to break down and reach the right consistency.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika. Adjust the amount to your taste preference, but start small and add more as needed for the desired spice level.
Is this sauce suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Karen's Marinara Sauce is naturally vegan, made with plant-based ingredients only. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes. Just ensure that the canned products you use do not contain any non-vegan additives. Pair it with your choice of vegan pasta for a delicious meal.
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).