Classic Italian Marinara Sauce
A bright, home-style Italian marinara using tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. This sauce highlights simple pantry ingredients and simmered aromatics for a silky, vibrant tomato base perfect for pasta or antipasti.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
Servings:
2 servings
(originally 4 servings)Ingredients(scaled)
- 1 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- ½ (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ Pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute; add garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar (if using), oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes; bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
- Remove from heat, stir in torn basil, and adjust seasoning to taste; serve over pasta or use as needed.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use good-quality tomatoes; crushing by hand keeps texture pleasant.
- Let sauce rest off heat 5 minutes to meld flavors before serving.
- For a smoother sauce, blend briefly after simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Toss with cooked pasta and a grating of Parmigiano, or use as a base for sautéed vegetables.
Storage Instructions
Store cooled sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Estimates
Per serving · 2 servings total
| calories | 150 |
|---|---|
| protein | 4 |
| carbohydrates | 18 |
| fat | 6 |
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