Make Your Own Marinara (Better Than Rao's)

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier, while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

fresh basil

🥗Healthier: dried basil

💰Cheaper: oregano

Dried basil is more convenient and has a longer shelf life, while oregano is often cheaper.

Put 1/4 cup olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 finely minced yellow onion, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and several cranks of black pepper to the pan.

Stir the mixture for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent.

If you are not confident in dicing an onion, you can use a cheese grater, food processor, mandolin, or chopper to get about 1 cup of tiny pieces.

Dial the heat down to low and add a standard 28 ounce can of crushed tomatoes to the pot.

Let the sauce simmer on low for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Taste the sauce and add salt to taste, starting with another teaspoon and stirring to dissolve.

Add 1 tablespoon of fresh basil that has been finely julienned or minced, stir everything around, and turn off the heat.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary