10 Minute Homemade Tomato Marinara Pasta Sauce Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Before we dive into making our own tomato marinara sauce, it’s essential to think about what you can pair with this delightful dish. Think of a classic spaghetti dish topped with a rich marinara, or perhaps spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.

 For a fresh twist, you could even pair it with zucchini noodles, often called “zoodles.”

On the side, consider garlic bread, either store-bought or homemade. There’s nothing like fresh bread slathered with butter and garlic for soaking up that delicious sauce.

 A simple salad of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette can also bring a burst of freshness to your meal. And, of course, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds the finishing touch.

Now that we have the perfect backdrop, let’s get into the heart of this flavorful journey.

It’s a rainy afternoon, the sun peeks through the clouds as I rummage through my pantry. I crave something comforting yet simple. That’s when it hits me—tomato marinara pasta sauce! 

After all, it’s versatile, easy, and can transform even the simplest of meals into something special. Over the years, I have experimented with countless variations, and today I’m excited to share with you my go-to 10 Minute Homemade Tomato Marinara Pasta Sauce Recipe.

This sauce is not just another recipe but a true celebration of rich flavors and vibrant colors. Organic tomatoes, fresh garlic, and a dash of herbs create a symphony of tastes that dances on the taste buds. 

Let’s get messy in the kitchen and whip up something that feels equally perfect for a sophisticated dinner or a casual family meal.

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What is 10 Minute Homemade Tomato Marinara Pasta Sauce?

At its core, this tomato marinara sauce is a simple yet flavorful blend of tomatoes, garlic, and spices. In just ten minutes, you can create a sauce that eclipses those store-bought jars, both in flavor and quality. Here’s the magic part—its versatility.

 You can use it in various dishes like pasta, pizza, or as a zesty dipping sauce for your favorite appetizers.

The beauty of this sauce lies in its simplicity. With fewer ingredients, each component shines through. It’s about elevating everyday pasta dishes to a new level of enjoyment.

What Does It Taste Like?

This recipe boasts vibrant, fresh flavors, thanks to the ripe tomatoes and herbs. The garlic contributes a subtle warmth, while the chili flakes provide a hint of heat that lingers pleasantly. 

It’s bright, hearty, and well-balanced, making every bite satisfying without overwhelming the palate. When paired with pasta, the sauce clings to the noodles, ensuring each forkful is a burst of goodness.

Why This Recipe Works?

There are plenty of marinara recipes out there, but this one stands out. Here’s why:

1. Quick and Easy
In just ten minutes, you’re ready to eat. This recipe takes advantage of canned tomatoes, which cuts down cooking time significantly. I often find myself reaching for the canned variety, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season.

2. Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil creates a depth of flavor you can’t get from a processed sauce. A drizzle of good olive oil at the end adds richness, making each bite even more pleasurable.

3. Customizable
Want to adjust the heat? Add more chili flakes. Prefer a sweeter sauce? Throw in an extra drizzle of honey. This recipe serves as a foundation, allowing you to create a sauce that matches your taste perfectly.

4. Healthy and Nutritious
With no added sugars or preservatives, this marinara sauce is a wholesome choice, packed with lycopene, vitamin C, and antioxidants from the tomatoes. Enjoy it guilt-free!

Ingredients For 10 Minute Homemade Tomato Marinara Pasta Sauce Recipe

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon honey

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 can of diced tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped.

Step by Step Instructions

Ready to craft your sauce? Grab your apron and let’s dive into the steps.

Step 1: Prep Your Garlic

Start by finely chopping the garlic. You want those little pieces to melt into the sauce as it cooks. A good quality garlic press can make this job easier.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a medium saucepan, heat the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. This step helps release the flavors of the oil.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Once the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can ruin your sauce.

Step 4: Add the Diced Tomatoes

Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Now, add in the salt, pepper, oregano, chili flakes, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It doesn’t need long; just about 3-5 minutes will ensure everything melds beautifully.

Step 6: Sweeten (Optional)

If you like a hint of sweetness, now’s the time to add the teaspoon of honey. Stir it in and taste the sauce, adjusting seasonings as necessary.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Your marinara sauce is now ready. Toss it with your favorite pasta, drizzle over a pizza, or dip some bread. Enjoy!

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your homemade sauce:

• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for organic diced tomatoes for more flavor and less acidity. Look for brands that don’t add fillers or preservatives.
  
• Bump Up the Flavors: Adding a splash of red wine can enhance the sauce further. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
  
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley, add them right at the end for an aromatic finish.
  
• Leftovers: This sauce stores well. Make a double batch and freeze for quick meals.
  
• Experiment: Don’t hesitate to add in other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
  

Nutrition Information

10 Minute Homemade Tomato Marinara Pasta Sauce Recipe Nutrition Facts

How To Store The Leftovers?

Storing this sauce is easy. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to five days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it. 

Pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Label and date them, and use within three months.

Sides For 10 Minute Homemade Tomato Marinara Pasta Sauce Recipe

When you serve marinara, think beyond just pasta. Here are some side ideas:

1. Garlic Bread
A classic companion, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Simply spread butter mixed with minced garlic on slices and toast until golden.

2. Garlic Roasted Vegetables
A medley of seasonal veggies—like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus—drizzled with olive oil and roasted can add great flavor.

3. Caesar Salad
The crispness of romaine, paired with a creamy dressing and fresh croutons, provides a nice textural contrast.

4. Caprese Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic reduction. This salad offers a fresh touch before the main meal.

Alternative Choices to Ingredients

Don’t have everything? No problem. Here are some alternatives that work just as well:

1. Fresh Tomatoes:
Instead of canned, use fresh tomatoes when they are in season. Just peel, chop, and cook them down.

2. Olive Oil:
Canola oil or avocado oil can replace olive oil if you’re looking for a more neutral flavor.

3. Red Pepper Flakes:
If you’re sensitive to spice, omit the chili flakes or replace them with a more mild seasoning like paprika.

4. Agave Nectar:
If you don’t have honey at home, agave nectar provides a similar sweetness to balance the acidity.

Conclusion

In ten minutes, with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious tomato marinara sauce that rivals any fancy restaurant’s creation. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience. 

You have the power to bring the essence of Italian cooking into your kitchen with ease. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a myriad of uses.

 So the next time rain clouds linger over your plans, whip up this quick sauce. Your taste buds will thank you, and maybe you’ll share your secret with others! After all, nobody needs to know just how easy it was.

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