Are you ready to transform your ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance? Our Loaded Veggie Tomato Sauce is not just another sauce – it's a flavor-packed, vegetable-loaded masterpiece that will revolutionize your Italian cooking game. Imagine a rich, vibrant sauce that's bursting with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a depth of flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. The pan should be large enough to accommodate all the vegetables and tomatoes.
- Add chopped onions to the heated oil and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the onions. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add diced zucchini and bell pepper to the pan. Sauté the vegetables together for 5-6 minutes, allowing them to soften and develop a slight caramelization.
- Pour the entire can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Sprinkle dried oregano over the sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly to distribute the herbs and seasonings.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or oregano to suit your preference.
- Before serving, tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the sauce as a vibrant garnish.
- Serve hot over pasta, use as a pizza sauce, or as a versatile base for other Italian-inspired dishes.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor, use crisp, seasonal vegetables that are at their peak ripeness. This will enhance the overall taste of your sauce.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when cooking the onions, garlic, and vegetables. Proper caramelization develops deep, rich flavors that make this sauce extraordinary.
- Low and Slow Simmering: Allow the sauce to simmer gently, which helps the flavors meld together and creates a thick, luxurious texture.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh basil as a finishing touch. The bright, aromatic flavor will elevate the entire dish.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to make the sauce even more nutritious and flavorful.
- Make Ahead Tip: This sauce actually tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat when needed.
- Versatility is Key: This sauce isn't just for pasta – try it as a pizza sauce, in lasagna, or as a dipping sauce for bread and appetizers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
