Meatless Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty and flavorful meatless spaghetti sauce bursting with herbs and tomato goodness. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a rich, savory pasta topping, this sauce combines stewed tomatoes, garlic, basil, and honey for a balanced, aromatic dish that complements any pasta type.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan under medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, and crushed red pepper in margarine and olive oil until tender.
- Add basil, oregano, and thyme to the saucepan.
- Pour in stewed tomatoes, roughly chopping up the individual tomatoes to the desired consistency.
- Add tomato paste and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in honey and turn down heat to low.
- Simmer, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes. Serve with pasta of choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions and garlic. If you're out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as sweeteners. To enhance the texture, feel free to incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. This sauce can be made ahead of time and pairs beautifully with Vegetarian Spaghetti Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatless spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. It pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, like Italian Style Bean Salad. For an added touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatless Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 1646 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 169g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1573mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, this meatless spaghetti sauce can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer, you can substitute margarine with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will provide a similar richness to the sauce.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This sauce freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.
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).