Simple Marinara Sauce

Makes about 2 cups

Serve this basic sauce with pasta or polenta, and top it with grilled or steamed vegetables.

1/2 cup red wine or water
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 15-ounce can crushed or ground tomatoes
2 teaspoons mixed Italian seasonings
1 tablespoon apple juice concentrate
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Heat wine or water in a large pot, then add onion and garlic and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, Italian seasonings, apple juice concentrate, and black pepper. Cover and simmer 15 minutes.