Raw Marinara Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 ripe tomatoes, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 small red onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (soaked in warm water for 15 minutes)

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

• 1-2 Medjool dates, pitted (for sweetness, adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Start by soaking the sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften them.

   • While the sun-dried tomatoes are soaking, dice the ripe tomatoes, chop the red bell pepper, red onion, and mince the garlic.

   • Gather fresh basil, oregano, and parsley leaves.

2. Blend the Base:

   • In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked sun-dried tomatoes (drained), diced ripe tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and minced garlic.

   • Blend until you have a smooth consistency. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well combined.

3. Add Fresh Herbs and Flavors:

   • Add the fresh basil, oregano, and parsley leaves to the blender.

   • Blend again until the herbs are finely chopped and well incorporated into the sauce.

4. Season and Sweeten:

   • Add the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the blender.

   • Pit the Medjool dates and add them to the blender for sweetness. Start with one date, blend, and taste. Add another if you prefer it sweeter.

   • Blend the sauce once more until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • Transfer the raw marinara sauce to a bowl or an airtight container.

   • Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

   • Serve your raw marinara sauce as a dip with fresh veggies, over zucchini noodles, or as a flavorful topping for salads.

Enjoy your homemade raw marinara sauce! This sauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a healthy addition to your meals.