Marinara Sauce

A rich, flavorful tomato sauce perfect for pizzas, pasta, and dipping!

Servings: 2 cups

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14-16 oz) crushed tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, blended)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• 2 tablespoons water (if needed for consistency)

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Instructions:

1. Sauté the Garlic:

   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown it).

2. Cook the Tomatoes:

   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
   • Add salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, and sugar.

3. Simmer:

   • Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • If it thickens too much, add a little water.

4. Taste & Adjust:

   • Check for seasoning and adjust as needed.
   • If using fresh basil, stir it in at the end for maximum flavor.

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Serving Suggestions:

✅ Use as a pizza base sauce
✅ Mix into pasta dishes
✅ Serve as a dipping sauce for breadsticks & mozzarella sticks