Marinara sauce

Marinara sauce is a simple, vibrant Italian tomato sauce, typically made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. It originates from Naples, Italy, and is a cornerstone of Neapolitan cuisine, often used as a base for pasta, pizza, and other dishes.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Marinara sauce is generally low in fat and protein, with its primary macronutrient being carbohydrates from the tomatoes. A half-cup serving typically provides around 70-90 calories, along with a good dose of vitamin C, lycopene, and potassium.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	70 kcal
Protein	2 g
Carbs	13 g
Fat	1.5 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	500 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	1200 IU
Vitamin K	10 mcg
Folate	30 mcg
Manganese	0.3 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Magnesium	20 mg

Per 1 cup (245 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, marinara sauce is celebrated for its simplicity and the quality of its few ingredients, embodying the Italian culinary philosophy of 'less is more.' Nutritionally, cooking tomatoes significantly increases the bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits.