Looking for a flavorful, low-sodium spaghetti sauce that comes together in under 45 minutes? This homemade marinara sauce is the perfect easy weeknight solution. By using canned no-salt-added stewed tomatoes and tomato paste, you get an authentic Italian marinara sauce flavor while keeping the sodium strictly controlled at just 41mg per serving.
Whether you're pairing it with a hearty bariatric-friendly meal or a simple gluten-free pasta, this easy low sodium marinara sauce with canned stewed tomatoes is sure to become a staple. It's heart-healthy, packed with flavor from garlic and oregano, and makes pasta night a breeze.
For more delicious meals you’ll be saying, “Mangia!”, explore our collection of healthy Italian recipes!
This sauce provides a rich, satisfying flavor while strictly limiting sodium and avoiding added sugars. It relies on natural herbs and olive oil to deliver heart-healthy fats and robust taste without the heavy salt content found in jarred alternatives.
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Yes, stewed tomatoes are excellent for marinara sauce as they break down easily and provide a rich, slightly sweet base flavor when blended.
Standard canned stewed tomatoes can be high in sodium, which is why this recipe specifically calls for "no-salt-added" stewed tomatoes to keep it heart-healthy.
The best way to reduce sodium is to make your own sauce using no-salt-added canned tomatoes and paste, relying on fresh or dried herbs like garlic, oregano, and parsley for flavor instead of salt.
These pasta dishes are perfect when made with our low sodium marinara sauce recipe, and you can find even more inspiration in our collection of heart healthy pasta recipes.
These low sodium chicken pairings are perfect when served alongside this homemade low sodium marinara sauce recipe for a complete, heart-healthy meal.
If you have an abundance of summer produce, making a homemade marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes is a delicious, vibrant alternative to using canned stewed tomatoes. This simple swap delivers an authentic, bright Italian flavor while keeping your pasta sauce naturally low in sodium and perfectly heart-healthy.
Using no-salt-added canned tomato products is the key to keeping this sauce heart-healthy. Stewed tomatoes are cooked down before canning, which concentrates their flavor and makes them perfect for a quick marinara. The tomato paste adds depth and thickness without the need for long hours of simmering.
Recipe yields 8 servings
Add the stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder in a food processor; blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute.
Add the oil to a large skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it begins to soften, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the puréed tomato mixture and dry white wine.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened, about 25 to 30 minutes.
Remove from heat and serve warm over your favorite high protein, gluten-free, or whole grain pasta.
To store, allow to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
This versatile marinara sauce is perfect over whole wheat spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or spaghetti squash. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside a lean protein like grilled chicken breast, turkey meatballs, or a hearty mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette.
You can substitute no-salt-added diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes, though the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.
Use 4 teaspoons of dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
Substitute with an equal amount of low-sodium or unsalted vegetable or chicken broth if you prefer to cook without wine.
Transform this heart-healthy, low sodium marinara sauce into a flavorful dip that perfectly complements your favorite party appetizers and snacks.