Marinara Sauce

Marinara Sauce is a vibrant, tomato-based sauce that’s a staple in Italian cuisine. It is not seasonally bound, as it is often prepared using canned or preserved tomatoes, allowing it to be made year-round. The sauce is characterized by its bright acidity, herbaceous notes from ingredients like basil and oregano, and a rich, savory depth from garlic and olive oil. It is predominantly used as a base for pasta dishes, as a dipping sauce for appetizers like mozzarella sticks, and as a component in various Italian-American entrées such as chicken parmesan.

Marinara Sauce Synonyms

Salsa Marinara
Napoli Sauce

Marinara Sauce Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Marinara Sauce

Canned

Marinara sauce available in cans is often more affordable and can be a pantry staple for quick meal preparation.

Jarred

Glass jars of marinara sauce are widely available, offering convenience and often a more premium product with a range of flavor profiles.

Homemade

Marinara sauce made from scratch, allowing for customization of ingredients and flavors to personal preference.

How to Choose Marinara Sauce

When selecting marinara sauce, look for options with a short list of recognizable ingredients to ensure a more natural and potentially less processed product. Avoid sauces with added sugars or excessive salt. Check the label for 'whole tomatoes' as a primary ingredient, and consider the type of oil used, with a preference for olive oil. The presence of fresh herbs and no artificial preservatives is also indicative of quality.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Marinara Sauce

Marinara Sauce is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine and a favorite among home cooks for its versatility and rich tomato flavor. When preparing marinara sauce, use high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes for the best results. The choice of tomatoes can make a significant difference—San Marzano tomatoes are often preferred for their sweetness and low acidity. Cooking the sauce over low heat allows the flavors to meld and deepen. If using herbs like basil or oregano, add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their aromatic qualities. A pinch of sugar can be used to balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed, and a dash of olive oil emulsifies the sauce, giving it a silky texture. For a more complex flavor profile, a splash of red wine can be incorporated during the simmering process.

Shelf Life of Marinara Sauce

Store unopened canned or jarred marinara sauce in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 5-7 days. For longer-term storage, marinara sauce can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 6 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Recommended Brands for Marinara Sauce

canned marinara sauce: Muir Glen, Cento

jarred marinara sauce: Rao's Homemade, San Marzano, Barilla

Cooking Techniques for Marinara Sauce

Blending: For a smoother sauce, some cooks prefer to blend their marinara after it has been cooked. This can be done with an immersion blender or by transferring the sauce to a blender. Be cautious with hot liquids and allow the sauce to cool slightly before blending if using a traditional blender.

Simmering: The key to a great marinara sauce is a slow and gentle simmer. This method allows the flavors to develop fully without reducing the sauce too quickly. Simmer the sauce, partially covered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your sauce periodically and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt is essential, but be judicious, and remember that the sauce will reduce and concentrate the flavors, including saltiness.

Popular Marinara Sauce Recipes

Spaghetti Marinara
Eggplant Parmesan
Chicken Parmigiana

Marinara Sauce Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.3 g
fiber: 1.8 g
sugar: 5.1 g
protein: 1.5 g
calories: 36 kcal
carbohydrates: 7.9 g

Flavor Combinations

Marinara sauce is robust and versatile, pairing well with a variety of ingredients. It complements all kinds of pasta, serves as a base for meat dishes, and is a key component in many vegetarian meals. Common pairings include mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, oregano, and Italian sausage. It also works well with seafood, like in a classic seafood marinara mix, and is a perfect dip for mozzarella sticks or garlic bread.

Allergen Information

Though Marinara Sauce is not a common allergen, those with sensitivities to tomatoes, garlic, or other ingredients commonly found in the sauce should exercise caution. It's also important to note that some store-bought or restaurant-made marinara sauces may contain allergens such as dairy, soy, or nuts, depending on the recipe.