Introduction

A good marinara sauce can be a kitchen lifesaver. With its bold, vibrant flavors and versatile uses, having an excellent recipe on hand can elevate even the simplest pasta dish. In this article, we’ll outline what we believe to be the best marinara sauce recipe, giving you step-by-step instructions on how to make it.

Ingredients

– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano

– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper

– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

– A small handful of fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sea salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir everything together to ensure that all of the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

4. Bring the mixture to a low simmer. Once simmering gently, reduce the heat to low and let it continue to simmer for at least 30 minutes (but up to one hour if you have time). This allows all of the flavors meld into a harmonious blend.

5. About five minutes before the marinara sauce is finished cooking, tear or chop fresh basil leaves and add them into the sauce.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or sugar if required—according to your personal preference.

7. Once the marinara sauce is ready, pour over your favorite pasta, use it as a base for a homemade pizza or as a dipping sauce for appetizers like mozzarella sticks or calzones.

Conclusion

With this recipe, you now have the foundational knowledge to create a delicious and versatile marinara sauce that is perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with ingredients and adjust the recipe according to your personal preferences. Enjoy the process of making marin