Italian Spaghetti Sauce(Meatless)
A hearty, meatless Italian spaghetti sauce bursting with fresh vegetables, herbs, and rich flavors, perfect for vegetarians and pasta lovers seeking a savory, customizable meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb yellow squash ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz) cans tomato paste ⓘ
- 2 to 3 cans hot water
- 4 Tbsp Italian seasoning ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp oregano
- 1 Tbsp marjoram ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp basil ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp black pepper ⓘ
- 6 crushed garlic pods ⓘ
- 2 large bell peppers ⓘ
- 3 large onions ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz) pkg mushrooms ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 c red wine (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute garlic in olive oil.
- Add onions and bell peppers, and continue to saute until soft.
- Add squash and mushrooms, and continue to saute until thoroughly mixed and heated.
- Dissolve tomato paste in water and add to the mixture.
- Add all spices: Italian seasoning, oregano, marjoram, basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed garlic.
- Stir over medium heat until thoroughly mixed.
- Cover and reduce to a simmer on the lowest setting for two to six hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over spaghetti or any other pasta.
- This recipe makes at least 12 servings.
- Remaining sauce can be frozen in dinner-sized portions for future use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato paste. If yellow squash isn't available, zucchini can be a great substitute. Fresh herbs can also enhance the dish; consider using fresh basil instead of dried for a more vibrant taste. This sauce can easily be adapted to include other vegetables like carrots or celery.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Spaghetti Sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Enjoy it alongside dishes like Pasta With Tomato And Garlic for a delightful Italian feast.
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. For longer storage, freeze in dinner-sized portions. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or wine to restore the sauce's consistency if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Spaghetti Sauce(Meatless) contains roughly 681 calories, with 16g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), and calcium (113% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1029mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
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 ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce tastes even better when made ahead of time! You can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. The sauce can also be frozen for later use, making it a convenient addition to your meal prep.
Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This meatless sauce is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. You can enhance the flavor profile by using vegetable broth instead of water for a more robust taste. It's perfect for anyone looking to enjoy Italian recipes while adhering to a vegan diet.
What can I serve with this spaghetti sauce?
This sauce is versatile and goes well with various dishes. Serve it over spaghetti, penne, or even as a topping for Sicilian Pizza Dough. For a heartier meal, add protein such as lentils or chickpeas. It also pairs nicely with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
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).