Low-Carb and High-Protein Shrimp Fried Rice
Learn how to make quick and easy low carb shrimp fried rice thanks to Kaizen rice!
Roasted Tomato Marinara Sauce (an Easy Low-Carb Pasta Sauce Recipe!)
This Roasted Tomato Marinara Sauce is a rich, flavorful, low-carb pasta sauce that pairs perfectly with Kaizen Lupini Pasta or zucchini noodles. Roasting fresh roma tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, creating a deep, caramelized flavor that makes this homemade sauce homemade tomato sauce out from anything store-bought. It'll become one of your new favorite things.
Unlike traditional marinara sauces that rely on added sugar, this keto-friendly, no-sugar-added recipe balances acidity naturally through the roasting process. Whether you're using it as a pasta sauce, dipping sauce, or pizza sauce, this easy recipe is a must-have for any Italian-inspired meal.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomato Marinara
You won't be able to get enough of this delicious sauce. Make your own roasted tomato sauce and fall in love with it for a few key reasons:
- Bold, rich flavor. Roasting the tomatoes enhances their sweetness and creates a well-balanced, deeply flavorful sauce.
- Unlike many store-bought sauces, this one keeps things low-carb and keto-friendly with no added sugar.
- Minimal prep time with maximum payoff in taste.
- Made with pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and herbs for a fresh, homemade taste.
- Use it as a low-carb marinara sauce for your favorite pasta, dipping sauce for garlic bread, or pizza sauce.
- Perfect for meal prep.
Why Choose Kaizen Lupini Pasta?
Kaizen Lupini Pasta is a low-carb, high-protein pasta alternative that delivers the taste and texture of traditional pasta—without the carb-heavy crash.
Key Benefits of Kaizen Pasta:
- 20g protein per serving – More than double the protein of traditional pasta.
- Only 6g net carbs – Perfect for low-carb, keto, and high-protein diets.
- Gluten-free & grain-free
- Superior texture – Holds its shape and absorbs sauce beautifully.
- Works in any pasta dish – Use it as a one-to-one swap for regular pasta.
Want to try it? Shop Kaizen Lupini Pasta Now
What You’ll Need for This Roasted Tomato Marinara
- Kaizen Lupini Pasta: The perfect low-carb, high-protein pasta to pair with this marinara sauce.
- Roma or cherry tomatoes: Roasting enhances their natural sweetness, creates a deep, rich flavor, and makes for the perfect fresh tomato sauce.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps with caramelization.
- Red onion: Balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh garlic: Essential for a well-rounded Italian flavor.
- Dried oregano & thyme: Classic herbs that bring an earthy depth to the sauce.
- Canned tomato sauce: Helps thicken the marinara and adds a smooth texture.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the roasted flavors.
- Ground paprika: Provides a slightly smoky undertone.
Swaps and Additions
- Fresh basil: A finishing touch for freshness. Fresh ingredients are key here.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds a little heat.
- Parmesan cheese or fresh burrata: For an extra cheesy finish.
- Meat sauce variation: Add ground beef or Italian sausage for a protein boost.
How to Make the Best Roasted Tomato Marinara
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the tomato halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and roast for 30-40 minutes until the skins can easily be peeled off. Let the tomatoes cool, then finely chop them for a smooth sauce (or roughly chop for a chunkier and delicious roasted tomato sauce).
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the red onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Add the roasted tomatoes and their juices to the pan, along with the tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, and paprika. Stir well and let the easy marinara sauce simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the Kaizen Lupini Pasta for 5-8 minutes, until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles. Serve with fresh basil, Parmesan, or burrata cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips for the Best Roasted Tomato Marinara
- Use high-quality tomatoes – The best flavor comes from ripe summer tomatoes, but cherry or San Marzano tomatoes work year-round.
- Roast at high heat – This caramelizes the natural sugars and intensifies the flavor.
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or food processor. This is the perfect way to get the best sauce.
- Add a pinch of baking soda – Helps balance acidity without adding sugar.
- Store & freeze for later.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, substitute with one 28-ounce can of whole peeled tomatoes, drained and roasted for 20 minutes. Still better than store-bought sauce!
2. Is this marinara sauce keto-friendly?
Absolutely! This sauce contains no added sugar, making it a great low-carb and keto option.
3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Swap in double the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried oregano and thyme.
4. How do I make this sauce chunkier or smoother?
For a chunkier sauce, roughly chop the tomatoes before adding them to the pan. For a smoother sauce, blend it using an immersion blender.
5. What can I serve with this marinara sauce?
This sauce pairs perfectly with Kaizen Lupini Pasta, zucchini noodles, meatballs, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce for garlic bread.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
This Roasted Tomato Marinara Sauce is the ultimate low-carb pasta sauce, packed with rich flavor and made from simple, wholesome ingredients. By roasting the tomatoes, we unlock their natural sweetness and depth, creating a marinara that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or dipping.
Pair it with Kaizen Lupini Pasta for a high-protein, gluten-free Italian meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a fresh batch, this sauce will become your new go-to marinara.
Get the best keto-friendly pasta here: Shop Kaizen Lupini Pasta.
