Salsa Marinara
A rich, flavorful marinara sauce with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and onion, perfect for pasta or as a base for many Italian dishes, appealing to all tomato lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium-large saucepan over medium heat, cook the minced onion and garlic in the extra virgin olive oil, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the ripe tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, the canned variety works perfectly. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the olive oil with avocado oil for a different taste. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Salsa marinara is delicious served over pasta, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as a base for dishes like Chicken & Spinach Lasagna. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. For a unique twist, try it with Cold Spaghetti for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the salsa marinara to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salsa Marinara contains roughly 2058 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 227g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% 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 make salsa marinara ahead of time?
Yes, salsa marinara can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after a day or two, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of onion?
If you're looking for a substitute for onion, shallots or leeks can provide a similar flavor. For a milder taste, you could use green onions or even omit them entirely if preferred.
Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the sauce's flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the tomatoes.
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).