Canned Spaghetti Sauce
Canned spaghetti sauce is a vibrant blend of fresh tomatoes and aromatic vegetables, perfect for topping pasta or as a base for various dishes. The combination of garlic, oregano, and a hint of sweetness makes it a delightful addition to any meal. Ideal for those who love homemade flavors and preserving seasonal produce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Flavor is enhanced when vegetables are chopped in a food processor.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, green peppers, celery, and red hot pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic salt, salt, oregano, and sugar.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add bay leaves and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, use a food processor to finely chop the vegetables. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider adding more sugar or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. You can substitute fresh herbs for dried oregano for a fresher taste. If you're short on time, canned tomatoes can replace fresh ones. This recipe also works well with other vegetables, so feel free to experiment with what's in season.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this robust sauce over your favorite pasta for a hearty meal, or pair it with garlic bread for a classic Italian experience. It also goes well with Pizza Dough And Breadsticks for a delightful dinner spread. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to six months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canned Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 101 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great substitute for fresh ones in this recipe. They can save time and still provide a rich flavor. Opt for whole or diced canned tomatoes and adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the canned variety.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add more heat, consider including additional red hot peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your taste preference, and if you're using fresh peppers, sauté them along with the onions and other vegetables for an even flavor.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This sauce freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Label them with the date for easy identification, and it can be stored for up to six months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).