Marinara Sauce (Salsa Marinara)

A simple, bright tomato sauce of garlic, olive oil, San Marzano tomatoes and basil that forms the backbone of countless dishes.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Two 28-oz cans whole San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand

Salt to taste

• 6 fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until pale gold and fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the red pepper flakes if using, then carefully add the crushed tomatoes.
3. Season with salt, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until thickened and the oil rises to the surface.
4. Stir in the basil leaves during the last few minutes.
5. Use immediately over pasta or store refrigerated for up to a week.

Notes

Lidia Bastianich’s everyday marinara, a foundational Italian sauce.