Name: Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon crushed pepper flakes ((adjust for spice level)); 28 ounces crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar ((optional, to balance acidity)); Fresh basil ((for garnish))

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Are you ready to elevate your pasta dishes with a homemade sauce that bursts with flavor? This Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe is here to help you create a delicious, rich sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re tossing it with spaghetti, using it as a pizza base, or dipping breadsticks into it, this marinara sauce is versatile, easy to make, and full of fresh ingredients. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table.

Reasons to Love Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can have a homemade sauce that rivals anything from a restaurant. Additionally, this sauce is customizable; you can adjust the spices to suit your taste or add your favorite vegetables for an extra twist. Lastly, the satisfaction of using fresh ingredients and creating something from scratch is unparalleled. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought sauce again!

Ingredients at a Glance

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon crushed pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh basil (for garnish)

Tools of the Trade

Large skillet: A deep skillet works best for sautéing and simmering.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce and ensuring it doesn’t stick.
Chef’s knife: For chopping your onions and mincing garlic efficiently.
Measuring spoons: To accurately measure your spices and ingredients.
Can opener: Essential for opening canned tomatoes.

Method: Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. The goal is to soften the onion and bring out its natural sweetness.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn as garlic can turn bitter quickly. Stir in the Italian seasoning, dried oregano, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well and let the spices toast for about a minute.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Pour in the 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, followed by the salt, black pepper, and optional granulated sugar. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but it’s entirely up to your taste preference. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you’d like, toss in some fresh basil just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Olive oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil or vegetable oil.
Fresh garlic: Use garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) if you’re in a pinch.
Crushed tomatoes: Substitute with diced tomatoes or tomato puree.
Fresh basil: Dried basil can be used, but use half the amount as it’s more concentrated.

If You’re Curious

This Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe is not only delicious but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its health benefits. Onions and garlic are excellent for boosting your immune system and adding flavor without excess calories. You can also customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional nutrients.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Once you’ve made this Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe, you can easily store it for later use. Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Your Top Questions

Can I make marinara sauce without onion?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of onion or prefer to skip it, you can omit it altogether. The sauce will still be delicious, especially with the garlic and spices providing flavor.

What type of tomatoes should I use for marinara sauce?

Canned crushed tomatoes are ideal for this Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe as they provide a smooth texture and rich flavor. However, you can also use diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes that are peeled and crushed if you prefer.

How can I make my marinara sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste to help thicken it up.

Is it necessary to add sugar to the sauce?

The sugar in this Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe is optional. It’s meant to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a more savory sauce, feel free to omit the sugar.

Next Steps

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making a delicious Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients and follow the steps to create your own homemade marinara sauce. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with family and friends, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a dish made from scratch. Whether you’re topping your favorite pasta, using it in a lasagna, or simply dipping warm bread into the sauce, this marinara is sure to impress. Happy cooking!