Imagine a sauce so packed with flavor and nutrition that it turns an ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure! This Vegetable Spaghetti Sauce is not just another tomato sauce - it's a vibrant, colorful masterpiece that sneaks in a rainbow of vegetables while delivering an explosion of Italian-inspired taste. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, busy parents, and anyone looking to elevate their pasta game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour the entire can of crushed tomatoes into the saucepan, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Add mixed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to the sauce, stirring thoroughly to distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle dried basil, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Stir well to incorporate all seasonings.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or basil to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over cooked spaghetti or store in an airtight container for later use.
Tips
- Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional punch. The more colorful, the better!
- Don't rush the sautéing process - letting onions and garlic develop a golden, translucent color builds deep flavor foundations.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes during simmering.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the vegetables after cooking.
- This sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, so don't hesitate to make a double batch.
- For a protein kick, try adding some cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings at the end - this is your secret weapon for a perfectly balanced sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
