Description
This easy homemade marinara sauce is a classic Italian recipe perfect for pasta nights. Made with crushed tomatoes, herbs, and garlic, it’s a flavorful and versatile sauce that can be used for pasta, pizza, lasagna, or as a dipping sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this vegan sauce brings fresh and rich flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Add Tomato Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, sugar (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to your liking.
- Add Fresh Basil: Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil for a bright and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender until reaching desired consistency.
- This sauce freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Use this versatile marinara for pasta dishes, pizza toppings, lasagna layers, or as a dip for breadsticks.
