Homemade Marinara Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onions: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 45 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness. Stir occasionally.
5. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving. Adjust seasonings if necessary.

Enjoy this homemade marinara sauce over pasta, on pizza, or in any dish that calls for a rich tomato sauce.