Low-Sodium Spaghetti Sauce
A flavorful low-sodium spaghetti sauce with rich tomato and herb flavors, perfect for a healthy, family-friendly meal that suits those watching their salt intake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms in olive oil in a large saucepan.
- Stir in no-salt tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, and sugar.
- Simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider substituting the mushrooms with diced bell peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; use fresh oregano and basil if available. To thicken the sauce, simmer longer or add a tablespoon of tomato puree. This low-sodium spaghetti sauce pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Chuck'S Pasta And Fagioli.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this low-sodium spaghetti sauce over whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. It complements a side of garlic bread or a fresh Italian Cauliflower Salad for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, add cooked ground turkey or lentils to the sauce. This sauce is versatile and can also be used in dishes like pizza or lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Sodium Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 281 calories, with 13g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (163% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value), and calcium (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. It also contributes 30g 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 tomato paste?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. Cook them down until they lose excess moisture before adding water and other ingredients. This will give you a fresh flavor, but the cooking time may increase slightly.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This spaghetti sauce freezes well. Just ensure it cools to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you're ready to use it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Yes, you can easily incorporate meat into this sauce. Ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage can be browned and added during the sautéing step. For a vegetarian option, consider adding lentils or chickpeas for added protein while keeping it low-sodium.
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).