Marika’s Signature Pasta Sauce with a Nutmeg Twist

Marika’s Pasta Sauce

Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Description

This delightful pasta sauce, affectionately known as “Marika’s Sauce,” was introduced to us by a wonderful lady named Marika, whose culinary skills left a lasting impression, particularly on my 9-year-old, who was so enamored with its flavor that she insisted on copying the recipe down. While it originally came from a cookbook whose name I can’t recall, the sauce has become a beloved staple in our home. Marika prepared two pots: one simply fantastic and the other enriched with sautéed scallops and shrimp, both of which were absolutely delicious. The unique addition of nutmeg lends this sauce a distinct and delightful kick that elevates it beyond the ordinary. Each time I have recreated this sauce, it has turned out just as splendidly, making it both easy and extraordinarily delicious. Though the parsley is a nice touch, I often omit it, so consider it an optional ingredient if you’re looking for a simpler preparation.

Recipe Category

Sauces

Keywords

Vegetable, European, Vegan, Kid Friendly, Savory, Brunch, Less than 4 Hours, Easy

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Begin by draining the canned tomatoes, reserving about 1 cup of the juice for later use. This will help enhance the overall flavor and consistency of your sauce.

2. Crush the Tomatoes: Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently crush the tomatoes in a large bowl, ensuring they maintain some texture. Set this aside, as it will be incorporated into your sauce shortly.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, grated carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients together, stirring frequently, for approximately 10 minutes or until the onions become translucent and the garlic is aromatic, being careful not to let it brown.

4. Combine Ingredients: After the aromatics are softened, stir in the crushed tomatoes along with the reserved juice. Add the dry red wine and tomato paste to the mixture, blending everything well.

5. Add Remaining Ingredients: Sprinkle in the chopped parsley (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients will bring depth and complexity to the sauce, making it truly special.

6. Cook the Sauce: Cover the saucepan with a lid and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

7. Finish Simmering: After 15 minutes, remove the lid and lower the heat to a simmer. Let the sauce continue to cook uncovered for an additional 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep everything well combined and prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pan. This extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, savory sauce.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors have fully developed, remove it from heat. Serve it hot over your favorite pasta, or consider incorporating it into a variety of dishes, such as lasagna or as a base for a seafood medley, just like Marika did. Enjoy the delightful tastes and the lovely aroma that fills your kitchen as you share this special sauce with family and friends.

With this easy-to-follow recipe for Marika’s Pasta Sauce, you can recreate a dish that is not only a testament to the joy of home-cooked meals but also a wonderful way to connect with loved ones through the shared experience of preparing and enjoying delicious food together. Whether you’re serving it plain or enhancing it with seafood, this sauce is sure to impress everyone at your table.