Vegetarian Classic Marinara Sauce
There is something deeply satisfying about a marinara sauce made entirely from scratch, and this one delivers that rich, slow-cooked flavor without requiring hours at the stove. San Marzano tomatoes are the real star here — their natural sweetness and low acidity mean you barely need to do anything to coax out a deeply savory, restaurant-quality result. Garlic sliced thin and coaxed slowly in olive oil builds an aromatic base that store-bought jars simply cannot replicate. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds just enough warmth without overwhelming the brightness of the tomatoes, and the torn fresh basil stirred in at the end keeps everything tasting alive and vibrant. Because every ingredient in this sauce is straightforwardly plant-based, it fits naturally into a meat-free kitchen without any substitutions or workarounds. Spoon it over pasta, use it as a pizza base, or dip crusty bread straight into the pan — this is the kind of versatile, honest sauce that earns a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.
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!