Hearty Veggie Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Veggie Tomato Pasta Sauce is a simple, wholesome way to add rich flavor to your pasta dishes. Made with fresh tomatoes and a medley of vegetables, it simmers into a thick, comforting sauce perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots), chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or a mix of basil and oregano
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add chopped mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Step 3: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm over your favorite pasta.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce after simmering.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter flavor, adding them towards the end of cooking.
• Incorporate mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.

Storage

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. The sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes work well and can actually save time. Use one 28-ounce can of crushed or diced tomatoes as a substitute for fresh.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce uncovered for longer to reduce excess liquid, or blend part of the sauce to make it thicker and creamier.

Hearty Veggie Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 110 reviews

A wholesome and flavorful Veggie Tomato Pasta Sauce made by simmering fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a medley of vegetables with aromatic herbs until thickened to perfection. This versatile sauce is perfect for any pasta dish and packed with nutritious ingredients.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots), diced

Herbs and Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Begin by washing and chopping the tomatoes into small pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the mixed vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Vegetables and Tomatoes: Stir in the mixed vegetables followed by the chopped tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Season and Simmer: Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld while the sauce thickens.
5. Final Adjustments: Once the sauce has thickened to your preferred consistency, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving with your favorite pasta.

Notes

• For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering to puree the sauce to desired texture.
• Adding a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
• Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs but add them towards the end of cooking.
• Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keywords: tomato sauce, vegetarian pasta sauce, homemade pasta sauce, vegetable pasta sauce, Italian sauce, healthy pasta sauce