Marinara sauce is a versatile tomato-based sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. It originated in Italy and is a staple in Italian cuisine, but has become popular worldwide as a flavorful and easy-to-make sauce.
Origins of Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce has its roots in Italian cuisine. The name “marinara” comes from the Italian word “marinaro”, meaning “sailor”. This refers to the fact that marinara sauce originated as a quick, easy to prepare food that could be made by sailors at sea using ingredients that could be stored on ships for long periods.
The earliest documented marinara sauce dates back to the 16th century in Naples, Italy. The simple tomato-based sauce was initially made using only tomatoes, garlic, herbs and olive oil – ingredients commonly found in Naples at the time. Over the centuries, marinara evolved into the more complex sauce we know today, with the addition of onions, carrots, wine and other ingredients.
Main Ingredients
While recipes can vary, the main ingredients found in marinara sauce are:
- Tomatoes – Provides the rich, tomato flavor base. Canned crushed or peeled tomatoes are most commonly used.
- Olive Oil – Adds flavor and gives the sauce a smooth consistency.
- Onions – Provides aromatic foundation and depth of flavor.
- Garlic – Gives marinara its signature garlic taste.
- Herbs – Basil, oregano, parsley and others add fresh herbal notes.
- Spices – Black pepper, red pepper flakes give a subtle heat.
- Wine – Often red wine; adds complex, well-rounded acidity.
In addition to the core ingredients, vegetables like carrots, celery and mushrooms can be used. Other add-ins like capers, olives or anchovies are options as well.
Flavor Profile
When properly made, marinara sauce has a bright, acidic tomato flavor complemented by aromatics like garlic and onion. It strikes a savory, mildly sweet and slightly spicy profile. The herbal notes from basil and oregano give it a fresh, authentic Italian taste. It has a smooth, rich consistency from the tomatoes and olive oil. The complexity of flavors is what makes marinara a great accompaniment to various foods.
How to Make Marinara Sauce
Making your own marinara sauce at home is relatively easy. Here are the basic steps:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Saute onions and garlic until soft.
- Add tomatoes, herbs, spices, salt and pepper. Allow to simmer.
- Once simmering, add red wine. Let sauce reduce down to desired thickness.
- Adjust seasonings as needed. Add more olive oil for smoother consistency if desired.
- Simmer on low heat for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Use immediately or store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to a week.
The sauce can also be made in large batches and frozen for later use. Freezing in portion sizes makes it easy to thaw just what you need.
Dishes that Use Marinara Sauce
Here are some of the most popular ways to use marinara sauce:
Pasta
Marinara is most famously paired with pasta. It coats long noodles like spaghetti beautifully and brings rich flavor. Some pasta dishes featuring marinara include:
- Spaghetti with Meatballs
- Baked Ziti or Lasagna
- Linguine with Clams
- Penne alla Vodka
- Fettuccine Alfredo
Pizza
On pizza, marinara makes a flavorful base paired with mozzarella and other toppings. Types of pizza with marinara sauce are:
- Cheese Pizza
- Pepperoni Pizza
- Supreme Pizza
- Margherita Pizza
- Vegetable Pizza
Seafood
The savory umami flavor of marinara beautifully complements seafood. It can be served over or alongside seafood dishes like:
- Shrimp Scampi
- Crab Cakes
- Fried Calamari
- Fish Tacos
- Clams or Mussels
Chicken
Chicken and marinara is a tasty combination. Marinara chicken recipes include:
- Chicken Parmesan
- Chicken Cacciatore
- Chicken Marsala
- Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
- Stuffed Chicken Breast
Vegetables
The fresh tomato taste of marinara pairs nicely with vegetables. It can be served over or with:
- Eggplant Parmesan
- Roasted Vegetables
- Stuffed Peppers or Mushrooms
- Zucchini Lasagna Rolls
- Vegetable Kebabs
Sandwiches and Subs
Drizzled over sandwiches or subs, marinara can add a burst of flavor. It’s great on:
- Meatball Subs
- Chicken Parmesan Subs
- Sausage and Peppers Subs
- Vegetable Subs
- Steak Sandwiches
Serving Suggestions
Here are tips for serving marinara sauce:
- Cook pasta until al dente; avoid overcooking. Toss cooked pasta in marinara sauce.
- For pizza, spread sauce thinly over dough before adding toppings.
- For seafood, spoon sauce over or place seafood on a bed of sauce.
- With chicken, spoon sauce over breaded or cooked chicken.
- Use as a dip for breads, vegetables, cheese, or meat.
- Drizzle over finished dishes for a burst of fresh flavor.
Storage
To store leftover marinara sauce:
- Let cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to airtight containers or resealable plastic bags.
- Refrigerate for 5-7 days.
- Freeze for 2-3 months.
- When reheating, cook over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
With its origins in Italian cuisine, marinara sauce is a versatile condiment that can add flavor to a wide array of dishes. It brings a tasty blend of tomato, garlic and herbs. Marinara pairs excellently with pasta, seafood, chicken, vegetables and more. Making your own marinara is simple. With proper storage, it can be enjoyed for up to a week refrigerated or months frozen. Keep marinara sauce on hand for an easy way to infuse meals with Italian flair.