Winter Marinara Sauce

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 (32-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes

1 dried bay leaves

 

Directions

In a large pot, heat the oil over a medium flame. Add the onions and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic, celery, carrots, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Sauté until all the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes and bay leaves, and simmer uncovered over low heat until the sauce thickens, about 1 hour. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Season the sauce with more salt and pepper, to taste and serve over pasta of choice.

(The sauce can be made a day or two ahead. Cool, then cover and refrigerate. Rewarm over medium heat before using.)