Sauce | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie

Marinara Sauce

Solanum lycopersicum Allergen-Free
marinara sauce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Tomatoes

The Forktionary Angle

"The versatile backbone of Italian-American cuisine, offering a fresh, bright tomato flavor."

Definition

A simple, quick-cooking tomato-based sauce traditionally made with tomatoes, garlic, herbs (like basil and oregano), and olive oil.

Sensory Profile

TasteSavory, Sweet, Tangy, Umami, Herby
TextureSmooth to Chunky, Viscous
AromaTomato, Garlic, Basil
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Common Usage

Pizza, Pasta, Dipping

Nutritional Highlight

Rich in Lycopene (Antioxidant)

Storage Tip

Refrigerate up to 7 days after opening.

Nutrition Facts

Per 120g (1/2 cup)
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat1.8 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.8 g
Total Carbohydrate5.0 g
Dietary Fiber1.5 g
Total Sugars3.0 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.6 mg
Potassium220 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a richer, deeper flavor, sauté a mirepoix (onions, carrots, celery) before adding tomatoes and simmering the sauce low and slow.

Substitutions

Best Match

Crushed Tomatoes

1:1

Needs seasoning (garlic, herbs, salt, sugar) and cooking time. Good for building flavor.

Diced Tomatoes

1:1

Similar to crushed but with more texture. Requires longer simmering for sauce consistency.

Tomato Paste + Water

1:1 (diluted)

Offers intense tomato flavor; dilute with water/broth and season heavily.

Canned Tomato Soup

1:1

A quick, pre-seasoned option, though often sweeter and thinner. Adjust seasonings.

Buying Guide

Choose varieties with low sodium and no added sugar for healthier options.

Flavor Pairings

Pasta pizza meatballs chicken parmesan lasagna dipping sauce for breadsticks.

Recipes Using Marinara Sauce

Beef Sausage Main Ingredient Pork Sausage Eggs Dairy

2Blue's Pepperoni Ravioli

Impress your guests with these vibrant 2 Blue S Pepperoni Ravioli! This delicious appetizer is ready in just 30 minutes and features a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a party or a romantic dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a taste sensation!

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Taste Mood Low Carb Dietary Occasion

Acadia's Eggplant Parmesan

Say goodbye to heavy breading! This vibrant Acadia's Eggplant Parmesan recipe delivers the classic flavors you crave in a lighter, healthier way. Perfectly layered slices of eggplant are sauteed to perfection, then nestled in a square baking dish with rich marinara and melted mozzarella. This elegant side dish (or light main course!) is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of summer, even on a chilly night!

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Cheese Time To Make Oven Main Ingredient

Addictive Cheeseburger Pizza

Get ready for a flavor explosion! This Cheeseburger Pizza is ridiculously addictive – the ultimate comfort food, loaded with juicy burger, savory sausage, and melty cheese. Prepare for rave reviews!

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Time To Make Side Dishes Preparation Rice

Arancini Italian Rice Balls

Crispy, golden-brown Arancini, bursting with cheesy flavor! These classic Italian rice balls are incredibly satisfying, packed with delicious risotto, and perfectly complemented by a rich marinara sauce for dipping. A simple yet elegant appetizer or side dish that will impress your family and friends.

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Lunch Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Artichoke Chicken Calzones

These irresistible Artichoke Chicken Calzones are a flavor explosion! Inspired by a Cooking Light recipe, these savory calzones are filled with tender chicken, artichoke hearts, spinach, and creamy provolone cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready for a taste sensation that'll have you going back for seconds!

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Main Dish Main Dish Manicotti Time To Make

Artichoke Stuffed Manicotti Weight Watchers

This lightened-up recipe from a 2004 Weight Watchers magazine is a delicious and surprisingly low-point way to enjoy classic manicotti! Each serving (2 manicotti) clocks in at only 4 points (using fat-free ricotta). Creamy artichoke hearts mingle with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and scallions in perfectly baked pasta shells. A simple marinara sauce and bubbly mozzarella cheese complete this satisfying and guilt-free meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both healthy and incredibly tasty!

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Cuisine 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Panko Chicken Parmesan

Crispy, juicy baked chicken parmesan – healthier than fried and bursting with flavor! This recipe skips the deep fryer for a lighter, healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Enjoy it over pasta, on a sub, or as a delicious appetizer. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Occasion 60 Minutes Or Less Penne Meat

Baked Pasta With Sausage And Tomato Pesto

This hearty Baked Pasta with Sausage and Tomato Pesto is a flavor explosion! Smoked Gouda (optional, but highly recommended!) adds a creamy, smoky depth, while spicy Italian sausage provides a delicious kick. This comforting casserole, adapted from "The Best American Recipes 2003-2004," is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Get ready for a taste of pure deliciousness!

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Course Main Ingredient Preparation Broccoli

Baked Penne With Broccoli And Three Cheeses

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor! This Baked Penne with Broccoli and Three Cheeses recipe (inspired by Bon Appetit, January 2003) is a quick weeknight meal the whole family will love. Enjoy perfectly cooked penne pasta, tender broccoli florets, and a delightful blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready for a comforting and satisfying dish that's easy to make!

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European Main Dish Preparation Penne

Baked Penne With Roasted Vegetables Courtesy Giada De La

A crowd-pleasing vegetarian bake inspired by Giada De Laurentiis! This recipe, adapted from her Everyday Italian show, features perfectly roasted vegetables tossed with al dente penne, rich marinara, and melted cheeses. A family favorite, even picky eaters will love this hearty and flavorful dish. (Note: This version includes garlic, unlike Giada's original garlic-free recipe for her mother.)

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Kid Friendly Dietary Taste Mood Equipment

Baked Sausage Penne

Craving a comforting yet unique baked pasta dish? This Baked Sausage Penne recipe elevates the classic with homemade marinara and pesto (jarred versions work perfectly too!). Swap in chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter twist. Designed for two with delicious leftovers, this weeknight-friendly recipe comes together quickly. Serve alongside a fresh green salad, crusty garlic bread, and your favorite red wine for a truly satisfying meal.

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Occasion Low Sodium Occasion Pasta Rice And Grains

Barley Mushroom Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

Savory vegetarian stuffed peppers! These vibrant green bell peppers are brimming with a hearty barley and mushroom filling, seasoned to perfection with herbs and cheese. A simple yet elegant recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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European Main Dish One Dish Meal Italian

Basil Lovers Tomato Cream Penne

Indulge in this incredibly easy and flavorful Basil Lovers Tomato Cream Penne! Ready in just 20 minutes, this creamy pasta dish bursts with fresh basil and savory pancetta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

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Main Ingredient Weeknight Preparation 4 Hours Or Less

Beautiful Vegetable Lasagna

This stunning vegetable lasagna is a feast for the eyes and the palate! Layers of vibrant zucchini, carrots, and spinach create a colorful and delicious dish, perfect for a luncheon or a special weeknight dinner. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, yet elegant lasagna recipe. Get ready for rave reviews!

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