Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, loved for its rich flavor and versatility. This simple tomato-based sauce can elevate any dish, from pasta to pizza. With ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a hint of herbs, it’s an easy recipe that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this marinara sauce is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g fat, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
5. Add sugar, oregano, and basil to the mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
8. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more herbs or salt.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute canned crushed tomatoes with fresh tomatoes; just blanch and peel them first. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes.
Serving and Pairings
Marinara sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti, meatballs, and even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. It’s also excellent on pizza or as a base for lasagna.
Storage and Reheating
Store marinara sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality tomatoes can lead to bland sauce.
- Overcooking garlic can make it bitter.
- Not simmering long enough can prevent flavor development.
- Skipping the sugar may result in a too-acidic taste.
- Neglecting to season can leave the sauce flat.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Try blending the sauce for a smoother texture.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes for unique flavors.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
FAQs
Can I make marinara sauce ahead of time?
Yes, marinara sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use. It often tastes better after the flavors have melded.
What can I serve with marinara sauce?
Marinara sauce is versatile and can be served with pasta, used on pizza, or paired with meatballs and breadsticks.
Is marinara sauce healthy?
Marinara sauce can be a healthy choice as it is low in calories and contains vitamins from tomatoes. Just watch the added sugars and oils.
How long does marinara sauce last in the fridge?
Properly stored marinara sauce can last in the fridge for up to 5 days without losing its quality.
Can I add meat to marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Ground beef, sausage, or turkey can be added to create a hearty meat sauce.
Conclusion
Marinara sauce is a timeless recipe that offers endless possibilities in the kitchen. Whether served over pasta, used in a pizza, or enjoyed as a dip, its delicious flavor and simplicity make it a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making this classic sauce and share it with family and friends!
Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Add sugar, oregano, and basil to the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more herbs or salt.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
