Classic Homemade Marinara Sauce

Every pasta lover knows that the secret to a fantastic dish lies not just in the type of pasta used but significantly in the quality of the sauce. While there are countless sauce options available in stores, nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own, especially when it’s as simple and delightful as a classic homemade marinara sauce. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of Italian cooking – simple ingredients coming together to create a dish full of flavor and love.

Ingredients to Gather

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. For this classic marinara sauce, you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The foundation of flavor.
• 1 cup (145 g) finely chopped Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 tablespoons Minced Garlic (approximately 5 large cloves) – For that irresistible aroma.
• 28 oz (680 g) Crushed Tomatoes (no spices or salt added) – The star of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Finely Shredded Fresh Basil – For a fresh, herby lift.
• 2 teaspoons Sugar – To balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• ¾ teaspoons Dried Oregano – For that classic Italian flavor.
• ¾ teaspoons Finely Ground Sea Salt – To enhance all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon Finely Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a subtle heat.
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes – For a kick of spice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Cooking this sauce is as easy as gathering the ingredients. Here’s how to bring this marinara sauce to life:

1. Heat Olive Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium/high heat until it shimmers. This is crucial for creating a flavorful base.
2. Saute Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the saucepan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion has softened and turned translucent, which should take about 3 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This step ensures that the garlic’s flavor infuses the oil without burning.
4. Combine Ingredients: To the saucepan, add the crushed tomatoes, shredded basil, sugar, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, it’s ready to serve. Pair it with your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or enjoy it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 120 kcal per serving
• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner.

Prep and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Final Thoughts

Creating this classic homemade marinara sauce is a labor of love that pays off immensely with its rich, comforting flavors. It’s a versatile sauce that pairs well with numerous dishes, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. The simplicity of the ingredients and the cooking process allows even novice cooks to produce a sauce that tastes as if it came straight from an Italian grandmother’s kitchen. So, the next time you’re planning pasta night, remember that the best flavors are those you craft with your own hands. Enjoy the process and, more importantly, the delicious results!

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