When I think about dining out, Arby’s might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, there’s something about their marinara sauce that piques my interest. It’s one of those hidden gems. But what can you pair with this sauce to elevate your meal?
Well, picture this: a crispy chicken sandwich dipped in a warm pool of marinara sauce, or perhaps some garlic bread fresh out of the oven, beckoning you to dunk. The possibilities are limitless!
As we explore the depths of Arby’s marinara sauce, prepare for some delicious storytelling. I’ll guide you through what this sauce is all about, why it’s worth the hype, and how to make your own at home.
What is Arby’s Marinara Sauce?
Arby’s marinara sauce isn’t just a simple sidekick—it’s a flavorful companion to their menu. Made with fresh-quality ingredients, this sauce provides a tangy and slightly sweet burst of flavor. It’s pure comfort in a cup, dancing between tomato goodness and herb-infused charm.
But what is it made of? Typically, marinara sauce consists of tomatoes, garlic, and spices. At Arby’s, you’ll find harmonized flavors that are rich, yet not overwhelming. Their version has a delightful balance that complements both meats and vegetarian options.
What Does It Taste Like?
If you’re curious about its flavor profile, think of a celebration of ripe tomatoes steeped with aromatic garlic, accented by a hint of sweetness from honey.
You’ll notice the subtle kick of red pepper flakes, which adds depth without overpowering. The dried Italian herbs bring familiarity, transporting your taste buds straight to an Italian kitchen. Each element works together to create a sauce that’s satisfying, whether you’re dipping or draping.
Why This Recipe Works
Creating your own version of Arby’s marinara sauce at home is a worthy endeavor. So, why does this recipe shine?
1. Simple Ingredients: The beauty lies in the straightforward ingredients. You won’t need to spend hours searching grocery aisles. The items are commonly found in any pantry.
2. Healthier Alternative: Making sauces at home allows you to control what goes into them. You can skip the preservatives and excess sugar. Think wholesome ingredients only!
3. Versatility: This marinara can moonlight in various dishes. Use it for pasta, as a pizza base, or as a dipping sauce. The options are practically endless!
4. Freshness Guaranteed: There’s something magical about freshly made sauce. The vibrant colors and delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere that packaged counterparts can’t replicate.
Ingredients for Arby’s Marinara Sauce
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s what you’ll need:
- 15 ounces tomato purée
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Sea salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon honey (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a subtle heat)
With these ingredients, your culinary adventure is just about to kick off!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by pouring the olive oil into a medium saucepan. Set it over medium heat. Allow it to warm up, just until it shimmers. This quick step helps to kickstart the infusion of flavor.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Toss in your smashed garlic cloves. Keep an eye on them as they sizzle. You want to lightly brown them—this releases their essence into the oil. But don’t burn them; burnt garlic can ruin the sauce.
Step 3: Pour in the Tomato Purée
Once the garlic has transformed into golden perfection, pour in the tomato purée. Stir everything together, allowing love and flavor to mingle.
Step 4: Sprinkle The Herbs
Now it’s time to spice things up. Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and honey, and stir well. These flavors need time to chat with one another. Let them simmer together for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Add Red Pepper Flakes
Feeling adventurous? Toss in the red pepper flakes. Stir and taste-test for seasoning. Adjust as needed. You might prefer it on the milder side or crave a spicier kick.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Once your sauce has reached the desired flavor, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool before storing it away for your next meal.
Notes
Before diving into your marinara journey, here are some helpful tips:
- Garlic Lovers Unite: Feel free to add more garlic according to your taste preference. Extra garlic can only enhance the flavor.
- Herb Freshness: Dried herbs are convenient, but if you have fresh ones, use them! They offer a more vibrant flavor.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your tolerance. A pinch for mild, more for intense heat.
- Tomato Variations: Consider using diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes instead of purée for different textures.
- Sweetness Balance: Depending on the acidity of your tomatoes, you can adjust the amount of honey. Just add a little at a time until balanced.
Nutrition Information
Let’s break down what you’re getting from this sauce. The nutrition information below estimates values for a serving of marinara sauce (about 1/4 cup):
- Calories: 70
- Total Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you find yourself with extra marinara sauce, don’t fret! Here are some storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Overnight cooling helps the flavors deepen.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning. It can last up to three months in the freezer!
Sides for Arby’s Marinara Sauce
Wondering what to pair this sauce with? Here are four crowd-pleasers:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery goodness that begs for marinara. The warm, toasted bread creates a perfect combo!
- Fried Mozzarella Sticks: Creamy mozzarella enveloped in crunch. Dip them generously in the sauce, and experience pure joy.
- Chicken Parmigiana: This dish is like getting a warm hug. A crispy chicken breast, gooey cheese, and marinara come together beautifully.
- Veggie Pasta: Toss your favorite pasta in the sauce. Add seasonal veggies for a colorful, nutritious meal.
Alternative Choices to the Ingredients
If you’re missing some components, no worries! Here are suggested swaps:
- Tomato Purée: Crushed tomatoes or store-bought marinara sauce can work. Adjust seasoning when you use these.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Light olive oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter can be substitutes.
- Honey: Use agave syrup or maple syrup if honey isn’t available. They will still offer the necessary sweetness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you prefer a different spice, use crushed chili or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Arby’s Marinara Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
Ingredients
- 15 ounces tomato purée
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves peeled and smashed (see note 1)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian basil see note 2
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Sea salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a subtle heat
Instructions
- Start by pouring the olive oil into a medium saucepan. Set it over medium heat. Allow it to warm up, just until it shimmers. This quick step helps to kickstart the infusion of flavor.
- Toss in your smashed garlic cloves. Keep an eye on them as they sizzle. You want to lightly brown them—this releases their essence into the oil. But don’t burn them; burnt garlic can ruin the sauce.
- Once the garlic has transformed into golden perfection, pour in the tomato purée. Stir everything together, allowing love and flavor to mingle.
- Now it’s time to spice things up. Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and honey, and stir well. These flavors need time to chat with one another. Let them simmer together for about 10-15 minutes.
- Feeling adventurous? Toss in the red pepper flakes. Stir and taste-test for seasoning. Adjust as needed. You might prefer it on the milder side or crave a spicier kick.
- Once your sauce has reached the desired flavor, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool before storing it away for your next meal.
Notes
- Garlic Lovers Unite: Feel free to add more garlic according to your taste preference. Extra garlic can only enhance the flavor.
- Herb Freshness: Dried herbs are convenient, but if you have fresh ones, use them! They offer a more vibrant flavor.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your tolerance. A pinch for mild, more for intense heat.
- Tomato Variations: Consider using diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes instead of purée for different textures.
- Sweetness Balance: Depending on the acidity of your tomatoes, you can adjust the amount of honey. Just add a little at a time until balanced.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Having explored the delights of Arby’s marinara sauce, you can see that it’s a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. Pair it with a variety of dishes or enjoy it as a part of numerous recipes.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick meal or impressing friends, this homemade version is worth every ounce of effort.
So go ahead—give it a try. Unleash your inner chef, and watch as this versatile sauce becomes a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Bon appétit!
