Are you craving that rich, vibrant marinara sauce you get at Carrabba's Italian Grill? Forget takeout! This easy, homemade recipe lets you recreate that delicious taste in your own kitchen. It’s bursting with fresh flavor and is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner. This recipe is your ticket to enjoying restaurant-quality Italian food, all from the comfort of your home! Let’s get started on this amazing journey of delicious homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions:
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Sauté the garlic: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be lightly golden, not brown. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for our sauce.
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Combine ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the sauce will become. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Taste and adjust: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, sugar, or herbs depending on your preference. This step ensures your sauce is perfectly balanced to your taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your homemade Carrabba's-style marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, with meatballs, on pizza, or as a dipping sauce for bread.
Tips for the Best Marinara:
- Use good quality canned tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes will significantly impact the taste of your sauce. Look for brands that use ripe, flavorful tomatoes.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes develops its rich flavor and allows the liquids to reduce, creating a thicker, more concentrated sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasonings throughout: Your taste buds are your best guide. Taste the sauce frequently and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Fresh herbs are best: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, feel free to substitute about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for each teaspoon of dried herbs.
Variations:
- Spicy Marinara: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Hearty Marinara: Add a diced onion, bell pepper, or mushrooms to the sauce during the sautéing step for added vegetables and texture.
- Meat Marinara: Brown some ground meat (beef, Italian sausage, or a combination) before adding the garlic for a heartier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use an online nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities. However, generally, this recipe is relatively low in fat and calories and high in vitamins and antioxidants due to the use of tomatoes.
This easy Carrabba's copycat marinara sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy creating delicious dishes from the comfort of your kitchen! It’s a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can be both delicious and satisfying. Happy cooking!