Seeds Free Classic Marinara Sauce
A deeply savory, slow-simmered tomato sauce is one of those kitchen staples that rewards you every single time you make it from scratch. This version builds its flavor the old-fashioned way — garlic gently coaxed in olive oil until fragrant and golden, then San Marzano tomatoes crushed right in the pan for a rustic, uneven texture that clings beautifully to pasta. The finishing touch of torn fresh basil stirred in off the heat keeps the herb bright and aromatic rather than muddy. For anyone navigating a seeds-free lifestyle, jarred sauces can be a minefield of hidden sesame, poppy, or other seed-based additives — making a homemade batch like this one genuinely worth the effort. Every ingredient here is straightforward and easy to verify, so you can ladle it on with total confidence. The optional pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes without masking that bold, tomatoey depth. Make a big batch and freeze portions — this sauce only gets better the next day.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled san marzano tomatoes
- ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ½ tsp granulated sugar (optional)
- 6 fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until it shimmers. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden at the edges, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely — garlic can brown quickly and will turn bitter.
- 2
Pour the canned tomatoes and their juices into the pan. Using a potato masher or fork, crush the tomatoes into rough, uneven pieces directly in the pan.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!