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Classic Italian Marinara Sauce

What is Italy’s most famous sauce served in a rustic bowl

A simple, vibrant, and authentic marinara sauce made with just a few ingredients—perfectly capturing the flavor of Italy’s most famous sauce. Ideal for pasta, pizza, and dipping bread, this recipe is quick, fresh, and timeless.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed San Marzano tomatoes

  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 56 fresh basil leaves (torn by hand)

  • ½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown).

  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, salt, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.

  4. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Turn off heat, stir in torn basil leaves and sugar if needed.

  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or let cool for storage.

Notes

  • Use whole San Marzano tomatoes and crush them by hand for a more rustic texture.

  • Sauce keeps for up to 5 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

  • For smoother sauce, blend after simmering.

  • Great as a base for pizza, pasta, lasagna, and more.

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