Classic Marinara Sauce
This classic marinara sauce is a fast and flavorful Italian tomato sauce made with garlic, olive oil, and San Marzano tomatoes. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect pantry-friendly base for pasta, pizza, or baked dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 2 cups)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly smashed
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand or with a fork
Salt, to taste
Fresh basil sprigs or chopped basil (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add smashed garlic and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown—about 2–3 minutes.
Add the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and red pepper flakes if using.
Let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Stir in fresh basil sprigs or chopped basil in the final minutes of cooking, if desired.
Use immediately, or let cool and store in the fridge or freezer.
Notes
Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of red wine if the tomatoes are too acidic.
For pizza sauce, keep it slightly looser; for pasta, reduce more.
Blend for a smooth texture if using in lasagna or with meatballs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Find it online: https://juliameals.com/classic-marinara-sauce/
