
Marinara
Marinara sauce is a vibrant and versatile tomato-based sauce, celebrated for its simplicity and fresh flavor. Typically made with tomatoes, garlic, herbs like basil and oregano, and olive oil, it boasts a bright, slightly sweet, and herbaceous taste. Its texture is smooth and slightly chunky, depending on the preparation, and its color is a rich, appealing red. Often used as a base for pasta dishes, pizza, and various other Italian-inspired recipes, marinara is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking and provides a delicious and easy-to-prepare option for home cooks. This classic sauce is also naturally vegan and gluten-free making it suitable for many dietary restrictions.
Common Uses
- Marinara sauce is a classic pasta sauce: Simmer your favorite cooked pasta, like spaghetti, penne, or linguine, directly in marinara sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. Add protein like meatballs or sausage for a more substantial dish.
- Marinara is used as a pizza base: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on pizza dough as a base, then add your desired toppings and cheese before baking. The acidity and sweetness of the marinara complement a wide variety of pizza ingredients.
- Use marinara sauce for dipping: Serve warm marinara sauce as a dip for breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, or toasted ravioli. The sauce provides a flavorful contrast to the crispy textures.
- Marinara can be used as a braising liquid: Use marinara sauce to braise chicken, eggplant parmesan, or other vegetables, creating a tender and flavorful dish. The sauce infuses the ingredients with its rich tomato taste.
- Marinara is used to make Shakshuka: A tasty middle eastern breakfast made by simmering eggs in the tasty sauce.
- Marinara is a versatile building block for other sauces: Enhance it with additional ingredients like vegetables, meat, or cream to create a bolder and richer sauce for various applications.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
70.0kcal (3.5%)
Protein
2.0g (4%)
Carbs
12.0g (4.36%)
Sugars
7.0g (14%)
Healthy Fat
1.5g
Unhealthy Fat
0.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
70.0kcal (3.5%)
Protein
2.0g (4%)
Carbs
12.0g (4.36%)
Sugars
7.0g (14%)
Healthy Fat
1.5g
Unhealthy Fat
0.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene from tomatoes, potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers.
- Good source of Vitamin C, supporting immune system function and skin health.
- Provides dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and gut health.
- Contains Vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
- Often lower in calories and fat compared to cream-based sauces, supporting weight management.
Storage Tips
Unopened jars of marinara sauce should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry, at room temperature. Once opened, transfer the remaining sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. It's best to use refrigerated marinara sauce within 5-7 days. You can also freeze marinara sauce for longer storage; portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace, and it will last for several months.
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