Planning Ahead: Crockpot Marinara

If you like to plan, prep and cook some of your meals ahead... this recipe is for you! We'll make up 1 or 2 batches of this sauce each month and have it on hand for any recipe that may come our way. From a simple spaghetti or lasagna to pizza sauce or to top a meatloaf. 

Crockpot Marinara 

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1/2 sweet onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 #10 can crushed tomatoes *
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano **
• 2 tablespoons dried basil **
• 2 tablespoons fennel seed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (more or less, to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (more or less, to taste)

Preparation

Start to heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the carrot, celery, onion, bell pepper and garlic and cook until the celery and onion are translucent and the carrots have softened.

Add the cooked vegetables and all remaining ingredients to a crock-pot. Mix well to combine. Cover and cook on low about 8 hours. Use in recipes right away, or freeze in individual servings to have on hand for later use.

* These are the large cans (approx. 106 ounces) you see at warehouse stores or restaurant supply stores.

** You could also substitute 2-3 tablespoons of Italian Seasoning for these spices.