Caffeine Free Paleo Marinara Sauce
A rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce is one of those kitchen staples that makes everything better, and this version is built entirely from clean, whole ingredients you can feel good about. Garlic blooms gently in olive oil before crushed San Marzano tomatoes are added, and the whole thing simmers low and slow until the color shifts from bright red to a deep, gorgeous brick-red. That unhurried cook time is what transforms a simple pantry can into something that tastes like it took all day. Torn fresh basil stirred in at the very end keeps the flavor bright and aromatic without any bitterness. For anyone steering clear of caffeine, this sauce is a natural win — no hidden coffee extracts, no chocolate, no tea-based additives, just vegetables, herbs, and good olive oil. It's endlessly versatile: spoon it over zucchini noodles, use it as a dipping sauce, or build a full paleo-friendly pasta night around it. Once you taste how much depth comes from such a short ingredient list, jarred sauce is going to have a hard time competing.
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
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed san marzano tomatoes
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- 8 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, if using, 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 turn bitter.
- 2
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!