Little Venice Spaghetti Sauce
Little Venice Spaghetti Sauce offers a rich, savory flavor with the sweetness of applesauce balancing the acidity of tomatoes. Infused with garlic, basil, parsley, and Romano cheese, this versatile sauce is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering authentic Italian taste with a smooth, hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the garlic clove and sauté it with olive oil in a saucepan.
- Add the tomato paste and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add crushed tomatoes, basil, parsley, applesauce, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- Simmer the mixture for an additional 40 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Romano cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried. If you don't have Romano cheese, Parmesan or Pecorino can be good substitutes. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the sauce a nice kick. Ensure to let the sauce simmer long enough to meld the flavors, as it enhances the overall taste, similar to Pasta With Tomato Vodka Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a twist, consider using it in dishes like Vegetarian recipes or as a base for No-Fry Eggplant Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Venice Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 494 calories, with 9g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 906mg per serving (39% 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?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge allows the flavors to develop even more. Just reheat it gently before serving. It's perfect for meal prep or for a quick weeknight dinner.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Yes, this spaghetti sauce freezes well. Once cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and store it for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Definitely! You can add ground beef, turkey, or sausage while sautéing the garlic. Cook until browned before adding the tomato paste. This will give the sauce a heartier flavor and texture, making it a satisfying option for meat lovers.
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).