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Marinara Dipping Sauce

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Marinara Dipping Sauce is a rich, homemade Italian-style sauce simmered with tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for dipping breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, pizza crusts, and other favorite appetizers.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Cook the diced onion until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, Italian seasoning, sugar if using, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Stir in the fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
  9. Serve warm as a dipping sauce or use as a pasta or pizza sauce.

Notes

  • Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
  • Use roasted garlic for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
  • Substitute fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky variation.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms for a heartier sauce.
  • Blend the finished sauce for a smoother texture if desired.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/marinara-dipping-sauce/