"Quick and Simple Easy Marinara Sauce Recipe for Delicious Homemade Pasta Dishes"

#### Easy Marinara Sauce RecipeWhen it comes to Italian cuisine, few things are as versatile and beloved as marinara sauce. This **easy marinara sauce recip……

#### Easy Marinara Sauce Recipe

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few things are as versatile and beloved as marinara sauce. This **easy marinara sauce recipe** is perfect for those who want to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or planning a cozy gathering with friends, this sauce will elevate any dish it accompanies.

#### Ingredients You'll Need

To create this **easy marinara sauce recipe**, you'll need the following ingredients:

- **Canned Whole Tomatoes**: 2 cans (28 ounces each)

- **Olive Oil**: 2 tablespoons

- **Garlic**: 4 cloves, minced

- **Onion**: 1 medium, finely chopped

- **Dried Oregano**: 1 teaspoon

- **Dried Basil**: 1 teaspoon

- **Salt**: to taste

- **Freshly Ground Black Pepper**: to taste

- **Red Pepper Flakes** (optional): for a touch of heat

- **Fresh Basil**: for garnish (optional)

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. **Add the Tomatoes**: Pour in the canned whole tomatoes, including the juices. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces. This will help create a rich and chunky sauce.

3. **Season the Sauce**: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. **Simmer and Thicken**: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency.

5. **Taste and Adjust**: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.

6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once your marinara sauce is ready, serve it over your favorite pasta, use it as a base for pizza, or pair it with meatballs for a classic dish. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor.

#### Tips for the Perfect Marinara Sauce

- **Quality Ingredients**: The key to a great marinara sauce is using high-quality canned tomatoes. Look for San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.

- **Fresh Herbs**: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute dried herbs with fresh ones. Just remember that fresh herbs are more potent, so use about three times the amount of dried herbs.

- **Storage**: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.

#### Conclusion

This **easy marinara sauce recipe** is not only simple to make but also incredibly flavorful and adaptable. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will help you create a delicious sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. So next time you're in the mood for Italian, remember this quick and easy marinara sauce recipe to impress your family and friends! Enjoy your culinary adventure!