If you're craving a burst of authentic Italian flavor but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, look no further! This Twenty Minute Classic Marinara Sauce is your ticket to a delicious homemade meal that’s quick, easy, and utterly satisfying. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a mere 20 minutes of your time, you can whip up a rich and flavorful sauce that will elevate any pasta dish to gourmet status. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this marinara sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to discover the secret to a perfect marinara? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh basil for garnish.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. The mixture should become fragrant.
- Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the sauce, stirring to incorporate the herbs evenly throughout.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each, and adjust as needed based on your preference.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- To serve, ladle the marinara sauce over your favorite pasta or use it as a base for other dishes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy your quick and delicious classic marinara sauce!
Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your marinara sauce greatly depends on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes and fresh garlic for the best results.
- Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce. Make sure the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then taste your sauce as it simmers. Adjust the seasoning gradually to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Experiment with Herbs: While dried oregano is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil for a unique twist. Fresh herbs can also be added at the end for a vibrant finish.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste!
- Serve with Love: When serving, don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor of your dish.
- Perfect Pairings: This marinara sauce is versatile! Use it over pasta, as a pizza sauce, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
