Oven-Roasted Marinara Sauce with Caramelized Onions

Indulge in the rich, robust flavors of homemade Oven-Roasted Marinara Sauce with Caramelized Onions. This recipe elevates the classic marinara with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the deep, roasted essence of tomatoes. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce, this marinara will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Roma tomatoes (or any ripe tomatoes)
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and halve the Roma tomatoes, removing the core. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. If they start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.

Step 3: Roast the Tomatoes

1. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the halved tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
2. Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until they are soft and slightly charred.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

1. Once the tomatoes are roasted, combine them with the caramelized onions and minced garlic in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with sugar, salt, and pepper as needed. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, blend for a shorter time.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and heat over low for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Tomato Selection: For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. Roma tomatoes are ideal due to their lower moisture content, but any flavorful variety will work.
• Caramelization: Patience is key when caramelizing onions. Low and slow is the mantra! This allows the natural sugars to develop and create a sweet, deep flavor.
• Blending: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender right in the pot for convenience.

Pairing Suggestions

This Oven-Roasted Marinara Sauce pairs beautifully with:

• Whole wheat pasta for a hearty meal.
• A fresh, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Grilled chicken or meatballs for a satisfying protein addition.

For a twist, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already plant-based, but you can enhance it with roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or use it as a sauce for grilled vegetables.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to swap dried herbs for fresh ones. Fresh basil, thyme, or parsley can add a vibrant flavor.

Conclusion

Crafting your own Oven-Roasted Marinara Sauce with Caramelized Onions not only enhances your dishes but also brings the joy of cooking to your kitchen. The aroma of roasted tomatoes and sweet onions will fill your home, making it a delightful experience.

For more culinary inspiration, check out this guide on fresh herbs or explore various pasta dishes that complement this sauce perfectly.

Dive into this recipe, share your creations, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade marinara. Happy cooking!