When it comes to versatile and crowd-pleasing dips, marinara sauce reigns supreme. Its tangy tomato base and aromatic blend of herbs and spices make it the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of appetizers, from mozzarella sticks to garlic bread. In this blog post, we will explore a delectable marinara dip sauce recipe that will elevate your snacking experience to new heights. Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Italy with this irresistible sauce.
Ingredients: To prepare this marinara dip sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
- Sauté the Garlic: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Add the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the saucepan and stir it into the sautéed garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to slightly darken in color and develop a richer flavor.
- Incorporate the Crushed Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine with the garlic and tomato paste mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season the Sauce: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, sugar, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes (if desired) to the saucepan. Stir to incorporate the seasonings evenly throughout the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker dip, continue to simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, if you prefer a thinner dip, you can add a small amount of water to achieve the desired thickness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your homemade marinara dip sauce is now ready to be savored! Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with an array of appetizers such as breadsticks, fried mozzarella, or crispy calamari. Pour the marinara dip into a serving bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch. Dive in and enjoy the tangy goodness!
Variations and Tips:
- Customizing the Flavors: Feel free to add your own twist to the marinara dip sauce by incorporating additional ingredients. You can experiment with diced onions, minced garlic, or even a splash of red wine for added depth of flavor.
- Enhancing the Herbaceous Notes: For an extra burst of freshness, you can add chopped fresh basil, parsley, or even a pinch of dried rosemary to the sauce. This will intensify the herbaceous aroma and elevate the overall taste.
- Creating a Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicier marinara dip, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Storage and Shelf Life: Any leftover marinara dip sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving or use it cold as a dip for your favorite snacks.