Craving a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious sauce that will transform your ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece? Look no further! This Easy Garbanzo Tomato Sauce is about to become your new go-to recipe that combines the hearty richness of garbanzo beans with the vibrant tang of crushed tomatoes. Perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort, this Italian-inspired sauce is a game-changer that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining and rinsing the garbanzo beans, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the dried basil and seasonings.
- Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat and add a generous drizzle of olive oil, approximately 1-2 tablespoons.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic, allowing the mixture to start simmering.
- Add the drained and rinsed garbanzo beans to the tomato sauce, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Sprinkle the dried basil over the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or basil to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and serve hot over pasta, rice, or as a standalone vegetarian sauce.
Tips
- Garlic Matters: Use fresh garlic and sauté it quickly to release its aromatic oils without burning. The key is medium heat and constant attention.
- Bean Preparation: Always rinse canned garbanzo beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Flavor Boosting: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar when simmering.
- Consistency Control: If the sauce seems too thick, add a little water or vegetable broth. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Herb Alternatives: No dried basil? Fresh basil or dried oregano work wonderfully as substitutes.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This sauce can be prepared in advance and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg