Why San Marzano Tomatoes and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Make the Best Italian Marinara Sauce

Why San Marzano Tomatoes and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Make the Best Italian Marinara Sauce

At Pellegrino’s®, we believe that the secret to an authentic Italian marinara sauce is simple: start with the best ingredients. That’s why every jar of our sauce begins with two essentials—San Marzano tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil. These traditional Italian staples create the rich, balanced flavor that sets our sauce apart from the rest.

San Marzano Tomatoes: The Gold Standard for Sauce

San Marzano tomatoes are widely known as the best tomatoes for pasta sauce, and for good reason. Grown in the fertile volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius in Italy, they have a flavor profile that no other tomato can match.

  • Naturally Sweet Flavor – San Marzano tomatoes have a natural sweetness that eliminates the need for added sugar or pastes.

  • Low Acidity – Their smooth, less acidic taste makes for a perfectly balanced marinara that’s easy on the palate.

  • Firm Texture – Unlike other varieties, they hold up during simmering, creating a thick, velvety sauce with no fillers.

This is why Pellegrino’s® marinara sauce has such a bold, homemade taste—because it’s built on the very best tomato.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The Foundation of Flavor

In authentic Italian cooking, olive oil isn’t just an ingredient—it’s the foundation. At Pellegrino’s®, we use only extra virgin olive oil for its unmatched flavor and quality.

  • Rich, Robust Taste – Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and adds a smooth, slightly peppery finish.

  • Health Benefits – High in antioxidants and healthy fats, it’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

  • Authentic Tradition – Extra virgin olive oil has been central to Italian kitchens for centuries. By using it in every jar, we stay true to tradition.

This choice makes our sauce richer, smoother, and unmistakably Italian.

Why These Ingredients Matter

By combining San Marzano tomatoes with extra virgin olive oil, we create a sauce that is:

  • Simple and pure

  • Packed with natural flavor

  • Free of fillers, added sugar, or cheap oils

At Pellegrino’s®, we don’t take shortcuts—because when the ingredients are this good, you don’t need to.

FAQs About Our Ingredients

What makes San Marzano tomatoes better for sauce?
They’re sweeter, less acidic, and have a firmer texture, making them ideal for a smooth, rich pasta sauce.

Why use extra virgin olive oil in marinara sauce?
It enhances flavor, adds richness, and keeps the sauce true to authentic Italian cooking traditions.

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Real Ingredients. Real Flavor.

When you open a jar of Pellegrino’s®, you’re getting more than just pasta sauce—you’re getting a taste of Italy. Our commitment to San Marzano tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil ensures that every meal tastes homemade, authentic, and unforgettable.

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