Tomato Sauce - Marinara
A flavorful and versatile marinara sauce with rich tomato and aromatic herbs, perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping, appealing to both casual and gourmet palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in olive oil until lightly brown.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce.
- Stir in salt, basil, oregano, pepper, parsley, and a pinch of sugar.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, cover, and cook for at least 25 minutes, up to 50 minutes for deeper flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, let the sauce simmer longer, up to 50 minutes. If you want to reduce acidity, add a pinch of sugar. Fresh basil can be substituted for dried if available. You can also customize this sauce by adding red pepper flakes for a kick or using roasted garlic for a deeper taste. This marinara pairs beautifully with 'Ajoe Ojo' Spaghetti With Garlic And Oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a classic dish. It also complements dishes like Pasta Fasule or can be used as a base for pizza. Consider pairing it with a fresh salad, like Applebaum'S Italiano Salad, for a complete meal. Grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh basil on top enhances the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, transfer to freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Sauce - Marinara contains roughly 383 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2215mg per serving (96% 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 to 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes should be peeled and chopped. Simmer them longer to break down and achieve the right consistency. However, canned tomatoes often provide more consistent flavor and texture.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion or add sliced fresh chili peppers. Adjust the amount to your heat preference, starting with a small pinch and increasing as desired.
Is this sauce suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this marinara sauce is entirely vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a great base for various vegan dishes, and you can enhance it with vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
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).