Are you tired of the same old red spaghetti sauce? Craving something vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then get ready to brighten your dinner table with this sunshine-yellow spaghetti sauce! This recipe uses simple ingredients and delivers a delicious, healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (adds sweetness and texture)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and 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 red bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your sauce.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Season and serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve your vibrant yellow spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Yellow Spaghetti Sauce:
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce greatly depends on the quality of your tomatoes. Look for brands with minimal added ingredients.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with spices: Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, or try adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy meal later in the week. It freezes well too!
Variations:
- Creamy Yellow Sauce: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Meaty Yellow Sauce: Brown 1 pound of ground Italian sausage or meatballs before adding the other vegetables for a heartier sauce.
- Vegetarian Yellow Sauce: Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 7-10g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This yellow spaghetti sauce is a simple yet delicious alternative to the traditional red sauce. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes that can elevate a weeknight dinner into something special. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful meal! It's one of the best recipes for a quick and satisfying dinner, showcasing the beauty of homemade cooking. This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite!