Go Back
–+ servings
Print

Low Carb Marinara Sauce

This Low Carb Marinara Sauce is a keto-friendly staple that's bursting with rich tomato flavor and Italian herbs. Perfect for zoodles, chicken parmesan, or as a dip, this sauce will become your go-to for a quick, delicious addition to any low-carb meal.
Course Sides
Cuisine Italian
Keyword Keto Italian Sauce, Keto Tomato Sauce, Low Carb Marinara Sauce, Sugar-Free Marinara
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 54kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Immersion blender (optional)

Ingredients

  • 28 ounces canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped about 1/2 cup / 75 grams
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar substitute (such as erythritol)

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, along with the sea salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to cook, uncovered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Remove the bay leaf and add the apple cider vinegar and sugar substitute, stirring well to incorporate. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce directly in the pan until it reaches your desired texture.
  • Serve hot over your favorite low-carb pasta alternative or allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes.
The apple cider vinegar adds a touch of tanginess to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and the sugar substitute helps to round out the flavors.
This sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
If you prefer a chunkier sauce, skip the blending step and serve as is.

Nutrition

Calories: 54kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Fiber: 2g | Net Carbs: 4g