Best Veggie Pasta Sauce Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional meat-based pasta sauces, then this veggie pasta sauce recipe is perfect for you. Packed with nutritious vegetables and bursting with flavor, this sauce will elevate your pasta dishes to a whole new level. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this delectable veggie pasta sauce.

Ingredients

To make this veggie pasta sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 zucchini, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the veggie pasta sauce:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the grated carrot, chopped zucchini, and diced bell pepper to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the sauce from heat.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender to puree until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
8. Return the sauce to low heat and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Your homemade veggie pasta sauce is now ready to be enjoyed.

FAQ

1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried. Just keep in mind that the flavors of fresh herbs are usually more potent, so you may need to adjust the amount accordingly. Generally, you would need about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Certainly! This recipe serves as a base, but feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables to the mix. Some great additions include mushrooms, spinach, or even eggplant. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may require longer or shorter cooking times.

3. Can I freeze the sauce for later use?

Absolutely. This veggie pasta sauce can be easily frozen for future use. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.

4. Can I use this sauce for other dishes besides pasta?

Definitely! While this sauce is fantastic with pasta, it can also be used in various other ways. It makes a great topping for pizza, a flavorful filling for lasagna, or even a dip for garlic bread. Get creative and experiment with different dishes to find your favorite use for this versatile veggie sauce.

5. How long will the sauce stay fresh in the refrigerator?

If stored properly in an airtight container, this veggie pasta sauce will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating and always use clean utensils when serving to avoid introducing any bacteria that may cause spoilage.

With this delicious and nutritious veggie pasta sauce recipe in your repertoire, you can elevate your pasta dishes to new heights. Packed with flavor and brimming with wholesome vegetables, this sauce is sure to become a household favorite. So, grab your apron and get cooking!