Marinara Sauce recipe – A classic tomato-based sauce for pasta and dipping.

Marinara sauce is a versatile and simple Italian staple that enhances everything from pasta to pizza or even as a dipping sauce for appetizers. With its rich tomato flavor and fragrant herbs, this sauce is quick to make and can be easily customized to your taste.

Ingredients (Makes about 4 cups):

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes (or whole peeled tomatoes, blended)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

1. Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pan. If using whole peeled tomatoes, blend them briefly before adding.
2. Stir in the oregano, thyme or rosemary (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, if needed.

3. Simmer the Sauce:

1. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
2. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency.

4. Finish with Fresh Herbs:

1. Stir in the chopped basil and parsley during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This adds a burst of fresh flavor.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions:

• For Pasta: Toss with spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta shape. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
• As a Dip: Serve warm with garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, or breadsticks.
• Pizza Base: Spread over pizza dough before adding toppings.
• With Proteins: Use as a sauce for chicken parmesan, eggplant parmesan, or meatballs.

Tips for the Best Marinara Sauce:

• Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano for the best flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs work well if fresh ones aren’t available.
• Customizations: Add a splash of red wine for depth or a pinch of crushed fennel seeds for an extra Italian twist.
• Storage: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

This Marinara Sauce is a quick and flavorful recipe that can transform any meal. Whether it’s a family pasta night or a cozy homemade pizza dinner, this sauce is sure to impress! Buon appetito!