A simple marinara sauce is perfect for adding rich, homemade flavor to your pasta dishes. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that’s ready in no time.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time1 hr
Difficulty
Hard
Kitchen Advice
Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
Simmer the sauce gently to allow the flavors to meld without burning.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Ingredients
0/15
Why This Dish Is Worth Trying
This sauce is a classic favorite because it is fresh, flavorful, and easy to make with simple ingredients. It brings a bright, tangy taste that complements many dishes and can be ready in under an hour. Its homemade quality beats store-bought sauces every time.
Step 1
Warm some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, and cook them gently until the onion turns translucent—this usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the brown sugar along with Italian seasoning, salt, oregano, basil, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for another minute or two until the sugar dissolves and the spices release their aroma.
Step 2
Now, add the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and a splash of white wine to the pot. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture up to a boil. Let it bubble away for about 10 minutes, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently. Keep stirring every now and then, and let the flavors meld for at least half an hour before serving.
317
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Ideas To Try
This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, meatballs, or as a base for pizza. You can also use it as a dip for breadsticks or drizzle it over grilled vegetables for added taste.
How To Store This Recipe
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze it in portions and thaw as needed to keep the flavor fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this sauce?
Yes, but you'll need to peel and chop about 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes and cook them longer to achieve the right consistency.
What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?
You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water with a splash of vinegar as a non-alcoholic alternative.
How long should I simmer the sauce for best flavor?
Simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors fully develop.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time and store it?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Is it possible to make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.
Do I need to peel the canned tomatoes before adding them?
No, canned diced tomatoes are pre-peeled and ready to use.
Can I skip the brown sugar if I want a less sweet sauce?
Yes, but the sugar helps balance acidity; you can reduce it or omit based on your preference.
What type of olive oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but any olive oil will work.
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