Homemade Marinara Sauce
Homemade Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian sauce that is loved by many. It’s simple to make and brings a fresh flavor to your dishes. Whether you’re making pasta, pizza, or a hearty stew, this sauce can elevate any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own marinara sauce has many benefits. First, it allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions. Second, it’s quick and easy to prepare. Finally, the taste is unbeatable. Fresh tomatoes and herbs combine to create a flavorful sauce that you won’t forget.
How to Make Homemade Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 cups tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and salt, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
How to Serve Homemade Marinara Sauce
Homemade marinara sauce is versatile and can be served in many ways. Use it as a topping for your favorite pasta dish or as a dipping sauce for garlic bread. You can also use it as a base for pizza or to enhance the flavor of your chicken or vegetable dishes.
How to Store Homemade Marinara Sauce
To keep your marinara sauce fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 5-7 days. If you have a large batch, consider freezing it in portions for later use. Just allow the sauce to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Homemade Marinara Sauce
- Use fresh tomatoes for the best flavor when in season.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender after cooking.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a little spice.
- You can also add sautéed onions for added depth.
Variation
For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers. If you like a sweeter sauce, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes for marinara sauce?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great option, especially when fresh tomatoes are not available. Use quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
Q2: How can I customize this recipe?
You can add other herbs like oregano or thyme, or include vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to suit your taste.
Q3: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinara sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Homemade Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups tomatoes (fresh or canned) Use fresh tomatoes for best flavor when in season.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Add just before serving.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and salt, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
