Quick Lo-Fat Herb Spaghetti Sauce
A quick, flavorful, low-fat spaghetti sauce infused with herbs, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner that appeals to pasta lovers seeking a light yet tasty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in vegetable spray; add minced garlic.
- Stir in tomato paste, water, oregano and basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti; sprinkle with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for heat. You can substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup if desired. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace dried ones, using about three times the amount. If you prefer a chunky sauce, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms during the sautéing step.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or even Rigatoni A La Masters for a twist. A side of garlic bread and a mixed green salad complement the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Top with grated cheese just before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Lo-Fat Herb Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 610 calories, with 14g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (117% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1116mg per serving (49% 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, you'll need about 4 cups of diced tomatoes. Cook them down to reduce their moisture before adding the water, as fresh tomatoes will introduce additional liquid into the sauce.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also mix in a bit of hot sauce or use spicy tomato paste for an extra kick.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
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).