Fresh Chunky Marinara Sauce

Makes: About 4 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Why You'll Love This!
Making marinara sauce from scratch is easier than you might think! Using fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs creates a bright, flavorful sauce without unnecessary added sugars or preservatives found in many store-bought varieties.
This versatile sauce is perfect for homemade pizzas, pasta, dipping breadsticks, or even serving alongside roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
• 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped (about 4 cups)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt, to taste

Optional:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring spoons

Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the garlic and oregano, stirring frequently for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Tip: Watch the garlic carefully—it cooks quickly. Burnt garlic can make the sauce taste bitter.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Reduce the heat to low.
Add the chopped tomatoes and a pinch of salt.
Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Simmer
Cover the skillet and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce becomes thicker than you'd like, stir in a small splash of water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 4: Taste and Finish
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
For extra freshness, stir in chopped basil or parsley just before serving.

Serving Ideas
Enjoy this homemade marinara sauce with:

• Homemade naan pizzas
• Whole wheat pasta
• Mozzarella sticks
• Breadsticks
• Chicken Parmesan
• Meatballs
• Roasted vegetables
• Lasagna

Kitchen Skills You'll Practice

• Knife safety
• Chopping vegetables
• Measuring ingredients
• Sautéing
• Simmering
• Tasting and adjusting seasoning

Food Safety Tip
Ask an adult for help when working around the stove. Always use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot cookware, and be careful of steam when removing the lid from the pan.

Nutrition Spotlight
Fresh tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene, while olive oil provides heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Preparing marinara from scratch is a simple way to enjoy wholesome ingredients and control the amount of sodium and added sugar in your meal.

🍅 Cooking with Dianne Tip
Homemade marinara is one of my favorite kitchen staples because it's simple, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Make a double batch and freeze extra portions for quick weeknight meals—you'll always have a delicious homemade sauce ready to enjoy!