“Deliciously Simple Vegetarian Pasta Sauce Recipe Without Any Meat”

Introduction

Are you looking for a delicious and filling vegetarian pasta sauce recipe? Look no further! This simple recipe is packed with flavor and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a devoted vegetarian or simply want to add more meatless meals to your repertoire, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

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

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

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables and herbs. You can add mushrooms, eggplant, or even spinach to enhance the flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this sauce your own!

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

2. Add the grated carrot, diced zucchini, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened slightly.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. While the sauce is simmering, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

6. When the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. You can leave it chunky or use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.

7. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat every strand.

8. Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Enjoy your homemade vegetarian pasta sauce with your favorite pasta!

FAQ

1. Can I freeze this vegetarian pasta sauce?

Absolutely! This sauce freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store it for later use. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Of course! If you have fresh basil or oregano on hand, feel free to use them instead of the dried herbs. Just keep in mind that you might need to use a larger quantity of fresh herbs, as their flavors are not as concentrated as dried ones.

3. How long does this sauce keep in the refrigerator?

If stored properly in an airtight container, this sauce will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

4. Can I add protein to this vegetarian pasta sauce?

Absolutely! While this recipe is vegetarian as-is, you can easily add protein by incorporating cooked beans, tofu, or meat substitutes into the sauce. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the protein is heated through.

5. Can I use this sauce for other dishes?

Definitely! This versatile sauce can be used in various dishes beyond pasta. It can serve as a base for homemade pizza, be layered in lasagna, or be drizzled over roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

There you have it, a delicious and easy vegetarian pasta sauce recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the flavors, get creative, and feel free to adjust the recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!