Meatless Tomato Sauce
A hearty, flavorful meatless tomato sauce made with canned tomatoes and herbs, perfect for pasta or as a base for other dishes, suitable for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan, stirring until well blended.
- Bring the tomato mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your meatless tomato sauce, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano along with the dried basil. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes for canned ones if in season, but remember to adjust the cooking time. For a richer taste, try adding a splash of red wine while simmering.
Serving Suggestions
This meatless tomato sauce is perfect over pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Herb Roasted Potatoes And Peppers for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also use it as a base for a vegetable lasagna or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatless Tomato Sauce contains roughly 28 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 canned ones?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used in place of canned. You'll need to peel and chop them, and you may need to adjust the cooking time for proper consistency. Generally, about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes equals one 16 oz. can of tomatoes. Just be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How can I make this sauce more flavorful?
To boost the flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and bell peppers at the beginning. You can also incorporate a dash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh garlic can be added instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This meatless tomato sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for a quick meal.
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).