Crock Pot Marinara

For the sauce, we decided we would try to simmer it in the crock-pot all day, since we wouldn’t have too much time once we got home.  It turned out great, and tasted rich with deep tomato flavor.  This makes quite a bit of sauce that can be used for different recipes or you can freeze for later use!

For the marinara sauce:

• 2 cans TJ’s whole tomatoes with basil (28 oz cans)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste (about 1/2 small can)
• 1 jar roasted red bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sweet balsamic vinegar
• All your favorite Italian spices.  I used about 2 tbsp italian seasoning (I didn’t have any herbes de provence), 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp of salt, pepper, an all-purpose seasoning like mrs. dash, 1 tbsp sugar.  It’s best to taste after it has been simmering for awhile and adjust to your liking.  I just dump them in there and don’t have measurements.

Cook everything in the crock-pot on low all day (about 8 hours) and once you get home, continue to cook but with the lid slightly off to help it reduce some more.  And voila!  How easy is that?!