top of page

🍅 Tomato-Basil Marinara Dipping Sauce

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Serves:

4

Level:

Beginner

About the Recipe

Bright, tangy, and herbal — this quick homemade marinara has a light freshness that pairs perfectly with cheesy bread.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1½ cups crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh blended)

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional, for finish)

Preparation

  1. Warm the olive oil in a saucepan set over medium heat.

  2. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

  3. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

  4. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.

  5. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

  6. Stir in fresh basil just before serving.

🍅 Serve warm with breadsticks, over pasta, or thin with olive oil for a light pizza sauce.

bottom of page