18 Italian Marinara Sauce Recipe Food Network Experience Culinary Bliss Now!

Ingredients

1. Tomatoes

The key ingredient in any marinara sauce is, of course, tomatoes. To make a perfect Italian marinara sauce, opt for using San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their rich and sweet flavor. You can use either canned or fresh tomatoes, depending on your preference and what's available.

2. Onion and Garlic

The next essential ingredients in this authentic Italian marinara sauce are onion and garlic. These aromatics add depth and flavor to the sauce, making it more savory and irresistible. Chop them finely to incorporate them seamlessly into the sauce.

3. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a staple in Italian cuisine, and it's no exception in this marinara sauce recipe. It adds a rich and fruity flavor to the sauce, making it more robust and satisfying.

4. Herbs and Spices

To give your marinara sauce a true Italian flavor, you'll need to add a variety of herbs and spices. Some classic choices include basil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Adjust the amounts to your liking, but be careful not to overdo it as these spices can easily overpower the sauce.

Preparation

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.

2. Add the Tomatoes

Next, add your chosen tomatoes to the saucepan and stir to combine them with the onion and garlic mixture. If using canned tomatoes, crush them with a spoon or masher to break them down.

3. Season and Simmer

Now it's time to add your herbs and spices. Start with a few pinches of each and taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your liking. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Blend (Optional)

For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a regular blender to blend until desired consistency is reached.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a simple yet delicious Italian marinara sauce that will elevate any Italian dish. You can use this sauce in a variety of recipes, from spaghetti and meatballs to chicken parmesan. It also freezes well, so feel free to make a big batch and store it for later use. Now that you know how to make your own homemade marinara sauce, you'll never go back to store-bought again. Buon appetito!