Marinara Sauce(Yield: 3 Cups)
A vibrant, flavorful marinara sauce with garlic, basil, and ripe tomatoes, perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping, appealing to both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the garlic in the olive oil over medium heat until golden brown.
- Add the chopped canned tomatoes and salt, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Tear the basil leaves and stir into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Serve the marinara sauce over pasta or use as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using San Marzano tomatoes for authenticity. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used as a substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly. For added depth, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat. This marinara sauce is versatile and can be used in various Italian recipes, such as Lasagna or Quick And Easy Pizza Dough.
Serving Suggestions
This marinara sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, but it can also be used as a base for many dishes, including Italian meatballs or as a topping for Polenta Pie. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, like Insalata Agro-Dolce, to balance the meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinara Sauce(Yield: 3 Cups) contains roughly 1136 calories, with 32g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 if you prefer. About 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes will work well. Just chop them and cook them down until they break down into a sauce consistency. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to reach the desired thickness.
Is this marinara sauce vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This marinara sauce is naturally vegan, as it contains only vegetables and olive oil. It's a perfect sauce for those following vegan recipes, and it can be enjoyed with a variety of plant-based pastas and dishes.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can definitely make this marinara sauce ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting for a day, as the flavors meld together. Just cool it completely before storing it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
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).