Extra-Chunky Tomato Sauce
A hearty, chunky tomato sauce full of fresh vegetables and robust flavors, perfect for pasta lovers seeking a filling and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and pepper in oil until tender.
- Add the extra-chunky spaghetti sauce; simmer on low heat for at least 15 minutes.
- Turn off heat and add sliced mushrooms.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano while simmering the sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the extra-chunky spaghetti sauce with a homemade marinara or use a jar of your favorite vegan recipes. Feel free to toss in other vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this extra-chunky tomato sauce over your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Pasta Salads for a refreshing side. Consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top or serving it with a crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete dinner, serve alongside a simple green salad or Italian Roast Pepper Salad.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring it's heated through without boiling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Extra-Chunky Tomato Sauce contains roughly 289 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned spaghetti sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned spaghetti sauce. Just peel and chop about 2-3 cups of ripe tomatoes, and simmer them until they break down into a sauce. You'll need to adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make this sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time, allowing excess moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or a bit of cornstarch mixed with water can help achieve a thicker texture without changing the flavor.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This extra-chunky tomato sauce freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
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).