When it comes to hearty meals, a good marinara sauce can be a game-changer. However, a traditional marinara sauce can contain hidden carbs that might not align with your dietary goals. This is why we've developed this low carb marinara sauce recipe. It's an easy-to-make, flavorful sauce that keeps the carbs in check without compromising on taste.
This sauce is perfect for anyone on a low carb or ketogenic diet, or for those who are simply trying to cut down their carbohydrate intake.
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this low carb marinara sauce is incredibly versatile. You can pair it with your favorite low carb pasta substitute, use it as a base for a pizza, or even as a dipping sauce for veggies or low carb bread. The rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile of this sauce enhances any dish it's paired with. Additionally, you'll be making it from scratch, so you'll have full control over what goes into your sauce, keeping it free of any unwanted preservatives or additives found in store-bought versions.
Secondly, this recipe is not just low in carbohydrates; it's also loaded with healthful ingredients. Tomatoes, the main ingredient in marinara sauce, are packed with beneficial nutrients like lycopene, vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Additionally, this sauce includes aromatic herbs and spices that not only add a depth of flavor but also have their own health benefits. For instance, garlic is known for its antioxidant properties, while basil offers anti-inflammatory benefits. With this recipe, you get to savor a delicious sauce that's low in carbs and high in nutrients.
Ingredients
Tomatoes- They add a natural sweetness and tanginess to your marinara sauce. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, you can use canned crushed tomatoes.
Garlic - Garlic adds an aromatic and subtle spicy flavor to the sauce. If you don't have fresh garlic, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be a good substitute.
Olive Oil - It adds a rich, smooth texture to your marinara sauce. If you don't have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or butter.
Basil - A handful of fresh basil leaves. Basil gives a sweet and peppery flavor to your sauce. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil (1 teaspoon) can work.
Salt- This essential ingredient enhances all the other flavors. You can use sea salt or kosher salt.
Tips
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Add a bit of red pepper flakes if you like your sauce spicy.
- Keep stirring the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Let the sauce cool before storing or freezing it.
How to Serve
This low carb marinara sauce is versatile and can be used in numerous ways. It's a fantastic addition to pasta, a dip for your favorite low-carb breadsticks, or a base for your pizza.
- You can serve this marinara sauce over spaghetti squash or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a delicious, low-carb meal.
- Use it as a base sauce for making a low-carb pizza. Just spread a layer of marinara on your pizza crust, add your favorite cheese and toppings, and bake.
- Try using this marinara sauce in a low-carb lasagna. Use thinly sliced zucchini in place of pasta layers for a hearty meal.
Similar Recipes
Alfredo Sauce without Heavy Cream
Low Carb Marinara
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of ripe fresh tomatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
- Blanch the tomatoes: boil them for a minute, then transfer to ice water and peel.
- Crush the peeled tomatoes and keep aside.
- Heat the oil in a pot, add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, and salt.
- Simmer the sauce for 30-45 minutes until it thickens.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Use immediately or let cool and store.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Add a bit of red pepper flakes if you like your sauce spicy.
- Keep stirring the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Let the sauce cool before storing or freezing it.