I love marinara sauce. I love the combined flavor and taste of basil, oregano and tomatoes. I use it on almost anything. I use it on pasta, on pizza and even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks and pizza crusts. Making marinara sauce at home using this recipe is quite easy. The ingredients are all placed together in a pot and then simmered for half an hour. It’s that simple! Ever since I first made it couple of weeks ago, I never buy the store bought jars anymore. My favorite way of using this flavorful sauce is to dress my spaghetti. Yummy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Marinara Sauce
To achieve the best marinara sauce, start with high-quality tomatoes. Canned San Marzano tomatoes are often recommended due to their sweetness and low acidity. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, go for ripe Roma or plum tomatoes. Blanch them in boiling water for a minute, then plunge them into ice water to easily remove the skins. For an extra depth of flavor, sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding it to the pot. This brings out its sweetness and mellows the sharpness. Remember, simmering is key. Let your sauce simmer gently, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or broth. For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, adjusting it to your spice preference. Lastly, don’t rush the process. Letting it simmer longer than the suggested time can enhance the flavors further. A good marinara sauce is all about patience and quality ingredients.
Serving Suggestions for Your Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Pasta is the obvious choice, but think beyond spaghetti. Toss it with penne, linguine, or even gnocchi for a delightful meal. If you enjoy pizza, use this sauce as your base instead of store-bought alternatives. Spread it generously over the dough, then layer your favorite toppings. For a hearty appetizer, use it as a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks or fried calamari. Meatballs in marinara is another classic combination, perfect for sandwiches or served over rice. If you want a lighter option, consider using marinara as a sauce for roasted vegetables. Drizzle it over zucchini or eggplant before roasting for added flavor. For a fun twist, try it in recipes like shakshuka, where eggs are poached in the sauce. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make your marinara sauce the star of your meal.
Storage Instructions and Variations
Storing your homemade marinara sauce is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy use later. It can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or heat it directly from frozen on the stove. As for variations, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding fresh parsley or thyme can give your sauce a unique twist. For a richer flavor, consider a splash of red wine during the simmering process. If you enjoy a bit of sweetness, a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition. The beauty of marinara sauce is its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you want to skip the wine, using vegetable broth or chicken broth works great. For a non-alcoholic option, you can also try using grape juice or apple cider vinegar diluted with water.
How should I store leftover marinara sauce?
Let the sauce cool down completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for about a week or you can freeze it for up to three months.
Can I make marinara sauce ahead of time?
Making it ahead is a smart move! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to use it.
What are some serving suggestions for marinara sauce?
Besides tossing it with pasta, you can use marinara as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or pizza crusts. It’s also delicious on baked chicken or as a base for homemade pizza.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making marinara sauce?
One common mistake is rushing the simmering process, which can lead to a less flavorful sauce. Also, be careful not to skip sautéing the garlic in the olive oil first, as it really enhances the overall taste.
Homemade Marinara Sauce
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 6 oz can tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ½ cup white wine
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat. Add onions and garlic; cook until onion is tender.
- Add tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper and wine.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes.
- With a hand blender, process until mixture is smooth.
Notes
Nutrition
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