Tired of the same old jarred marinara? Craving a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly flavorful sauce that's bursting with fresh vegetables? Then look no further! This veggie marinara recipe is your answer. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and delivers a delicious homemade taste that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your pasta nights and impress your family with this simple yet stunning homemade cooking creation.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!
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Add the Peppers: Add the chopped bell peppers to the saucepan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened. This step brings out the sweetness of the peppers and adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
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Combine the Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This is a great time to multitask and get other parts of your meal ready!
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the sauce to your desired consistency. This step is completely optional – many prefer the chunky texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious veggie marinara sauce over your favorite pasta, with meatballs, on pizza, or as a dipping sauce for bread. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Veggie Marinara:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh herbs and vegetables will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process to achieve your preferred taste.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your saucepan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding. This prevents the vegetables from steaming instead of sautéing.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Low and slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and develop fully.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier marinara.
- Hearty Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrients and texture.
- Meat Lovers Delight: Brown some ground meat (beef, turkey, or Italian sausage) before adding the onions and proceed with the recipe.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator after inputting your exact ingredients and serving size. However, this veggie marinara is generally low in fat, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and antioxidants thanks to the abundance of vegetables. It's a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.
This easy recipe is perfect for those looking for delicious dishes and best recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a versatile sauce that can be used in countless dishes, making it a true staple for your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!