Ragu Spaghetti Sauce
Rich, flavorful spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes, garlic, peppers, and herbs, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onions, garlic, and peppers in oil for 30 minutes.
- Put the cooked mixture through a blender until liquefied.
- Wash and core the tomatoes; then blend until liquefied.
- Combine all ingredients and boil to your desired consistency.
- Add one large can of tomato paste for added flavor and body.
- Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Pour into hot sterile jars for canning.
- The sauce also freezes well for future use.
- Use as you would any commercial spaghetti sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder sauce, reduce the number of hot peppers or omit them altogether. You can substitute fresh basil for crushed basil, using about 1 tablespoon of fresh for every teaspoon dried. If you have extra vegetables, feel free to add them in, such as zucchini or carrots, for a richer flavor. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ragu spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as rigatoni or spaghetti. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Italian cucumber salad for a complete meal. You can also use it as a base for dishes like pasta fagoli or as a topping for Italian steak for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, place cooled sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ragu Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 85 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Use about 6-8 cups of canned tomatoes, and adjust the sugar and salt to taste, as canned tomatoes can be sweeter and saltier.
How long can I store the sauce in the freezer?
The sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. Make sure to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes, this sauce is already vegan as it contains no animal products. You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste, making it a great option for vegan recipes.
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).