What To Do With Marinara Sauce Besides Pasta : 25 Tasty Sides

Mamma mia, does nothing sound more comforting than a big ol’ pot of marinara sauce? Whether you’re serving it up as your main dish or using it as the star of a delicious side dish, this Italian classic is always a winner.

I remember growing up, my mom always made the best marinara sauce. It was always a family favorite, and we would all gather around the dinner table to enjoy a big bowl of pasta smothered in her delicious sauce. Of course, no Italian meal is complete without some delicious side dishes. But what to do with marinara sauce besides pasta?

With the help of some research and a lot of experiments in the kitchen, I have finally come up with the perfect list of side dishes to serve alongside your marinara sauce. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you!

What To Do With Marinara Sauce Besides Pasta

Crackers
Creamy Tomato Soup
Pizza
Lasagna
Submarine Sandwich
Fresh Salad
Roasted Zucchini
Roasted Eggplant
Broccoli
Carrots

Crackers

Crackers are a buttery, crisp, and flaky snack that can also be used as a delicious replacement for bread. Crackers have a subtle sweetness and melt in your mouth, making them the perfect pairing for a savory marinara sauce.

While they may not be as filling as bread, crackers offer a lighter option that is ideal for a summer meal. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.

Simply preheat the oven, spread the crackers with sauce, and bake until golden brown. For a crunchier texture, try using whole wheat or rye crackers. And for a cheesy twist, top the crackers with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese before baking.

Creamy Tomato Soup

There are few dishes more creamy and luxurious than creamy tomato soup. The addition of marinara sauce gives the soup an extra depth of flavor, as well as a lovely acidity.

It can be served hot or cold, making it the perfect dish for any season. Plus, the soup can also be dressed up with a variety of toppings, such as croutons, chopped herbs, or grated cheese.

One word of caution: when using the marinara sauce in creamy tomato soup, be sure to not use too much, as the acidity can overwhelm the delicate flavor of the soup.

Pizza

Let’s talk about the marinara sauce – specifically, on pizza. I know it’s not the most traditional topping, but hear me out. Marinara is a tomato-based sauce that is usually seasoned with garlic, basil, and oregano. It has a slightly sweet taste, and a thick, chunky texture. When paired with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil, it is delicious. Trust me – I’ve tried it many times before.

Now, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when using the marinara sauce on pizza:

Make sure you use a high-quality sauce – no one wants watery, bland marinara.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Adding sausage, peppers, or even pineapple can take your pizza to the next level.
Remember that less is more. You don’t want to overwhelm the other flavors with too much sauce.

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that traditionally features layers of pasta, meat, and cheese. However, many modern recipes also include a tomato-based sauce. While some purists may balk at this addition, there is no denying that marinara sauce can elevate the dish to new heights.

The acidity of the tomatoes helps to balance the richness of the cheese, and the herbs add a subtle depth of flavor. Additionally, the sauce helps to keep the noodles moist, preventing them from becoming dry and crumbly.

Of course, not all marinara sauces are created equal. So for the best results, follow these simple tips:

Look for a recipe that uses fresh tomatoes and a variety of herbs.
Be sure to taste the sauce before adding it to the lasagna, as it may need to be adjusted for saltiness or acidity.

Submarine Sandwich

Vietnamese Pork Banh Mi Sandwich with Cilantro and Daikon

Adding marinara sauce to your Submarine Sandwich is the perfect way to change up your lunchtime routine. Not only is it a delicious condiment, but it also provides a variety of health benefits.

Marinara sauce is a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. It is also a low-calorie option, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using the marinara sauce on your Submarine Sandwich:

Be sure to pair it with a cheese that will complement its flavor.
If you are using jarred sauce, be sure to heat it before adding it to your sandwich, as this will help to bring out its flavor.
If you are looking for a lighter option, try using less sauce or diluting it with water.

Fresh Salad

If you’re in the mood for something light and healthy, a Fresh Salad is a great option. It’s packed with nutrients, and the variety of textures and flavors can make it a satisfying meal. To mix things up, try adding marinara sauce on top.

The acidity of the sauce will contrast with the bitterness of the greens, and the sweetness will balance out the overall flavor. Plus, the sauce will add some extra protein and creaminess to the dish.

However, be careful not to go overboard – too much sauce can make the salad heavy and unhealthy. When in doubt, start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Roasted Zucchini

Roasted zucchini is a delicious and healthy alternative to pasta. It’s low in calories and carbs, and it’s packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s easy to make. Simply slice the zucchini, drizzle with olive oil, and roast in a hot oven until tender. The result is a delicious side dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein.

Of course, when it comes to choosing a marinara sauce and opting for roasted zucchini, there are some things to remember.

When choosing a marinara sauce for zucchini

Consider the acidity level of the sauce. If it’s too acidic, it will overwhelm the delicate flavor of the zucchini.
Choose a sauce that has a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Look for a marinara sauce that contains chunks of tomatoes, onions, and garlic. These ingredients will add depth and flavor to the dish.

When opting for roasted zucchini

First, be sure to slice the zucchini evenly so that it cooks evenly.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; otherwise, the zucchini will steam instead of roast.
If you’re using fresh herbs, be sure to add them during the last few minutes of cooking so that they don’t burn.

Roasted Eggplant

Roasted eggplant is a great option when you want something hearty and filling, but don’t want the extra calories that come with meat dishes. It has a rich, satisfying flavor that pairs well with tomato-based sauces like marinara.

While it can be a bit tricky to get the perfect roasted eggplant, following a few simple tips will help you achieve success:

Choose an eggplant that is firm and shiny.
Cut the eggplant into even slices, no more than 1/2 inch thick.
Generously brush the eggplant with olive oil. Fourth, roast the eggplant in a hot oven (400 degrees Fahrenheit) for 20-30 minutes, until it is tender and golden brown.

Broccoli

Broccoli has a strong, unique flavor that some swear by and others find to be a bit too intense. It’s an acquired taste. The texture is dense and slightly chewy, with a slightly crunchy outer layer. When cooked, broccoli can take on a bright green hue.

Because of its taste, marinara sauce is a classic pairing for Broccoli. The acidity of the tomatoes in the sauce helps to offset the bitterness of the Broccoli, while the herbs and spices round out the flavors.

As far as cooking methods go, steaming is generally considered to be the best way to preserve nutrients and flavor. However, broccoli can also be roasted, sautéed, or even grilled. Just be sure not to overcook it, as this can make it mushy.

When stored properly, Broccoli can last anywhere from four to seven days in the fridge. So if you’re looking for a vegetable that will last a while, Broccoli is a good option. However, it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later for the best flavor and texture.

Carrots

Carrots are one of the most versatile vegetables out there. They can be roasted, sautéed, pureed, or even eaten raw. And no matter how you prepare them, carrots always taste great with a little marinara sauce on top.

Carrots are a good source of fiber and vitamins A, C, and K. They’re also low in calories and fat-free, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

However, carrots can be tricky to cook. If you overcook them, they’ll become mushy and flavorless. But if you undercook them, they’ll be crunchy and hard to eat. The key is to find the perfect balance between these two extremes.

One way to do this is to roast your carrots in the oven until they’re tender but still slightly firm. Then, simply top them with your favorite marinara sauce and enjoy.

Conclusion

When it comes to what goes with marinara sauce, there are endless possibilities. You can pair the sauce with crackers, vegetables, eggs, or even sandwiches.

No matter what you choose, the combination of delicious marinara sauce and your favorite dish is sure to be a winner. So next time you’re planning a meal, don’t forget to include this classic sauce on your list of ingredients!