Best Rated Vegan Marinara Sauce Recipe for Easy Meals

If you’re on the hunt for a rich, flavorful, and totally vegan marinara sauce that rivals any traditional recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This best rated vegan marinara sauce recipe is a beautiful blend of ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and subtle spices that come together to create a sauce bursting with classic Italian charm.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add a wholesome plant-based option to your meal rotation, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.

From pasta dishes to dipping sauces, this marinara is versatile, easy to make, and keeps well for leftovers. You’ll love how it transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, heartwarming sauce that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ready to dive in? Let’s cook up something delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan marinara sauce is:

• Simple and quick to prepare with pantry staples.
• Rich in flavor thanks to slow-simmered tomatoes and fresh herbs.
• Healthy and natural — no added sugars or preservatives.
• Perfectly balanced acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• Gluten-free and allergen-friendly, suitable for many dietary needs.
• Extremely versatile — use it on pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes — preferably organic
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
• 1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup (to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth (optional, for thinning)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Ladle
• Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smoother texture)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your saucepan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
4. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step deepens the tomato flavor.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar or maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. If the sauce becomes too thick, add water or vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
9. About 5 minutes before finishing, stir in the fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh herb aroma.
10. Optional: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce carefully to a blender, then blend to your preferred texture.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Tips & Variations

“To deepen the flavor, try roasting fresh tomatoes and adding them to the sauce!”

• Use fresh tomatoes: In peak tomato season, substitute one can of crushed tomatoes with 2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes for a fresher taste.
• Add vegetables: For a chunkier sauce, include diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots when sautéing onions.
• Spice it up: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cashew cream or coconut cream for a luscious texture.
• Batch cook: This sauce freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan marinara sauce is a kitchen superstar that pairs beautifully with many dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Classic spaghetti or any pasta shape — sprinkle with fresh basil and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• As a base for vegan Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe or plant-based meatballs.
• Spread on pizza dough before adding your favorite toppings.
• As a dipping sauce for garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
• Layered in casseroles or baked dishes like vegan lasagna (Kosher Lasagna Recipe works great with this!)
• Swirled into soups or stews for extra depth.

Conclusion

This best rated vegan marinara sauce recipe is a truly versatile and flavorful staple that every home cook should have in their repertoire. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet delicious and robust enough to impress at dinner parties.

With fresh herbs, quality tomatoes, and a few simple steps, you can create a sauce that’s bursting with authentic Italian flavors without any animal products. Plus, it’s completely customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this marinara will become a go-to recipe for your pasta nights and more. Don’t forget to check out other fantastic recipes like the Lump Of Coal Recipe and the comforting Marzipan Challah Recipe for delightful additions to your cooking adventures.

Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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