A Simple Marinara

Marinara sauce originated in Naples, Italy, likely in the 16th century after tomatoes were introduced to Europe, and its name, meaning “sailor-style” or “mariner style,” reflects its historical connection to seafaring individuals. Though early forms may not have featured tomatoes, and the sauce’s true origin is debated, the simple, shelf-stable ingredients of tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil made it ideal for sailors and fishermen. The sauce became a staple in Italian cuisine, transforming into a key ingredient in Italian-American dishes like spaghetti and meatballs after its introduction to the United States by immigrants in the late 1800s.

With all of the tomatoes I have been picking lately, I have to come up with creative ways of using up a lot of tomatoes at a time. Sauces will do that. This time, it was a simple, basic, delicious marinara sauce that I used for my chicken Parmigiano. It seems like no matter how many tomatoes I use, I still have an endless, or at least seemingly endless, supply. 🙂

Simple Marinara Sauce

I used a combination of tomatoes for this easy-peasy, delicious sauce. I like mixing my tomatoes, especially when making sauces. I think combining different varieties adds a new level of richness to the sauce.

5-6 lbs tomatoes, diced medium

1-2 TBSP garlic

1/3 cup olive oil

salt & pepper to taste

1 TBSP each fresh basil, chiffonade, fresh thyme and fresh oregano, chopped

Heat the garlic in the olive oil and cook at a medium-low temperature for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the tomatoes, salt & pepper and cook for about 30-45 minutes, or until the tomatoes break down and make a thick sauce. Stir occasionally.

Add the fresh herbs right at the very end of the cooking process and mix together thoroughly. Add more of the fresh herbs on top right before serving.

Serve over anything you like, from pasta, to chicken, to seafood or vegetables. No matter what you serve it with, you will love it.

We had Janet and Bob’s grandson Peter over for dinner last night, and Janet kept telling me that Peter likes simple foods. Well he went back for seconds, so I’m pretty sure he liked this. 🙂

Have a great day and make everyday great. Sometimes the simple things in life are the best things. Stay safe and say well. ‘Til next time.