This marinara sauce is the key to a tasty pasta night. Made with juicy tomatoes, fresh garlic, and herbs, it’s simple yet bursting with flavor!
Who knew making great sauce could be so easy? I love tossing it with my favorite noodles. It’s like giving pasta a warm hug. Try not to eat it all by the spoonful! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This is essential for flavor. You can use regular olive oil, but extra virgin gives a richer taste. Sunflower or avocado oil are suitable alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but the flavor won’t be as deep. Adjust to your taste if you like it garlicky!
San Marzano Tomatoes: These tomatoes are known for their sweet flavor. If unavailable, you can use any good-quality canned whole tomatoes. Just make sure to crush them well for that authentic taste.
Onion: Onions help deepen the flavor. If you want to skip them, that’s okay too, or try shallots for a milder taste.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and basil make a huge difference! If all you have are dried herbs, use less since they’re more concentrated; about a third of the amount should work.
How Do You Get the Right Flavor Balance in Marinara Sauce?
Balancing flavors is important to make your sauce delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with quality ingredients—fresh garlic and good tomatoes make a big difference.
- Cook garlic and onion gently so they don’t burn; this prevents bitterness and enhances sweetness.
- A pinch of sugar can help if the tomatoes taste too acidic. Add a little at a time and taste as you go.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process. Taste your sauce regularly to find the right balance.
- Finally, fresh herbs add freshness, but add them towards the end of cooking to keep their flavor bright.
Best Italian Marinara Sauce for Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. A quick yet rewarding sauce that’s perfect for your pasta dishes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion (if you’re using it). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is translucent. Watch closely to avoid burning the garlic as it can become bitter.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Next, take your canned San Marzano tomatoes. You can crush them by hand for a chunkier texture, or use a blender or food processor if you prefer a smoother sauce. Add the crushed tomatoes, along with their juices, to the saucepan with the sautéed garlic and onion.
3. Season the Sauce:
In this step, stir in the sugar (if using), along with salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat). Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
4. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your sauce! Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as necessary to get the flavor just right.
6. Serve It Up:
Once your marinara sauce is ready, pour it over your favorite cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch. Grab your fork and enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch them first in hot water for a few minutes to loosen the skins, peel them, and then crush them before adding to the sauce. Just be sure to cook the sauce a bit longer to develop the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftover Marinara Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Substitute the Olive Oil?
Yes! While extra virgin olive oil gives the best flavor, you can substitute with canola oil, avocado oil, or even butter for a different taste. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly.
What’s the Best Pasta to Serve with Marinara Sauce?
Marinara sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of pasta types. Traditional choices include spaghetti, penne, or linguine. For a gluten-free option, try zucchini noodles or any gluten-free pasta you enjoy!
