Imagine transforming a few simple ingredients into a mouthwatering marinara sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This quick and easy Italian classic is not just a sauce, but a culinary shortcut to bringing authentic restaurant-style flavor right into your home kitchen. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate food lover, this marinara recipe will become your secret weapon for creating delicious meals in a flash.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Be careful not to let the oil smoke.
- Add minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden.
- Pour the entire can of crushed tomatoes into the pan with the garlic. Stir to combine and distribute the garlic evenly.
- Add sugar to the sauce, which helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance their natural sweetness.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered on low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley, which will add a bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
- Taste the sauce one final time and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let the sauce rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- • Use fresh garlic for the most robust flavor - avoid pre-minced garlic from jars. • Keep the heat low and gentle when sautéing garlic to prevent burning. • The sugar is a game-changer: it balances the tomatoes' acidity without making the sauce sweet. • Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish - chop it just before adding to preserve its vibrant flavor. • For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or a splash of red wine. • Let the sauce rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together. • This marinara freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making meal prep a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
