Spaghetti Or Lasagna Sauce
A hearty and flavorful tomato-based sauce with garlic, onion, and herbs, perfect for spaghetti or lasagna, appealing to pasta lovers seeking rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the additional tomato sauce in a saucepan and cook until thickened.
- Add 12 ounces of tomato sauce to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer on low for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra depth of flavor, sauté the garlic and onion in olive oil before adding the tomatoes. You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like basil for a fragrant twist. This sauce works well for Jim Bennett's Spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce over spaghetti or use it in lasagna for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad and garlic bread. Consider topping with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for added flavor. For a lighter option, try it with zoodles or whole grain pasta. Browse more Italian recipes for more ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Or Lasagna Sauce contains roughly 548 calories, with 18g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (305% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 85g 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 make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use. Just reheat when ready to serve, and it will be just as delicious.
What can I use if I don't have tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can use an equal amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, though keep in mind that it may alter the consistency and flavor slightly. You can also simmer the sauce longer to thicken it if needed.
Is this sauce suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this sauce is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes. Simply ensure any pasta you serve it with is also vegan-friendly for a complete 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).