Fresh Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: Italian

A vibrant, flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce with fresh herbs and garlic, perfect for quick pasta dishes that suit both casual and special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. diced tomatoes
  • 2 Tbsp. drained and minced sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian (flat leaf) parsley
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed

Instructions

  1. Combine the fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, parsley, olive oil, garlic, and black pepper; stir to blend.
  2. Toss the sauce with hot pasta and serve at once.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider roasting the fresh tomatoes before using them. You can substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different taste. Fresh herbs are key, but if unavailable, dried herbs can be used in a pinch; just reduce the amount. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can also give the sauce a nice kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fresh sun-dried tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside sautéed Broccoli Rabe Ala Napilatano for a colorful, healthy plate.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain the desired consistency. This sauce also freezes well; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fresh Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce contains roughly 313 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

313 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.2g 8% DV
Total Fat 28.3g 36% DV
Carbs 12.8g 5% DV
Fiber 4.2g 15% DV
Sugar 4.6g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 166.6mg 7% DV
Potassium 459mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 99mcg 11% DV
Vitamin C 33.3mg 37% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 189.5mg 15% DV
Iron 7.7mg 43% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

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 make this sauce vegan?

Yes, this sauce is naturally vegan as it contains only plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that the sun-dried tomatoes you use are packed in oil without any animal-derived additives. This makes it a great option for those looking for vegan recipes.

How can I enhance the flavor of this sauce?

To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Additionally, incorporating a bit of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can add a savory depth to the sauce.

What type of pasta works best with this sauce?

This sauce is versatile and pairs well with various types of pasta. Long strands like spaghetti or linguine work beautifully, but you can also use short pasta like penne or fusilli for a heartier dish. For a gluten-free option, choose your favorite gluten-free pasta.

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).

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