Textual Chef

Marinara Sauce

A vibrant Italian tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. This versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks and fried appetizers.

40 minEasyServes 885 cal/serving

ItalianSauceStovetopVegetarianVeganStandardGluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-Free

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cans canned whole peeled tomatoes (28 oz), crushed by hand
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp granulated sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

  2. 2

    Add 1 finely diced yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to let the garlic brown.

  4. 4

    Pour in 2 cans crushed by hand canned whole peeled tomatoes (28 oz) with their juices. Add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp granulated sugar (optional) if using (the sugar helps balance acidity).

  5. 5

    Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until slightly thickened.

  6. 6

    Use an immersion blender to puree to desired smoothness, or leave chunky for a more rustic sauce.

  7. 7

    Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves.

  8. 8

    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

  9. 9

    Use immediately or cool completely and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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