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Homemade Marinara Sauce

A simple, authentic marinara sauce that captures the essence of Italian culinary tradition, perfect for pasta and more.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essentials
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for superior flavor.
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for a sweeter, richer taste.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • a few leaves fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

Cooking the Sauce
  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add the canned tomatoes with their juices, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon, stirring the mixture together, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
  7. Adjust the seasoning as per your taste and serve with freshly torn basil on top.

Notes

Serve over al dente spaghetti and pair with light-bodied red wine like Chianti.