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Easy Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe for Beginners Made from Scratch

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A quick and easy marinara sauce made from scratch using simple pantry ingredients, perfect for beginners and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 can (28 ounces / 800 g) whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh oregano)
  • A small handful fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, to loosen sauce if needed

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir frequently for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and golden but not burnt.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize and deepen flavor.
  4. Add the entire can of whole peeled tomatoes with juices. Break tomatoes into smaller pieces with a spoon or spatula.
  5. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir to combine.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add up to 1/2 cup water if sauce becomes too thick or sticks.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Stir in torn fresh basil leaves just before turning off heat and let wilt for 1-2 minutes.
  9. Optional: Use an immersion blender to pulse sauce to desired smoothness or leave chunky for rustic texture.
  10. Serve warm over pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a pizza base.

Notes

Avoid burning garlic by stirring continuously and cooking on medium heat. Use San Marzano canned tomatoes for best flavor. Adjust sugar to balance acidity if tomatoes are very tangy. Sauce thickens as it cools; add water or olive oil when reheating to restore texture. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: marinara sauce, easy marinara, simple tomato sauce, homemade marinara, beginner recipe, Italian sauce, pasta sauce, vegan sauce, gluten-free sauce

Find it online: https://milacook.com/easy-simple-marinara-sauce-recipe-for-beginners-made-from-scratch/