Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This vibrant zucchini and tomato sauce recipe is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend lunch. Bursting with fresh summer flavors, this homemade dish is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a culinary masterpiece. It's one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and light, perfect for those warm evenings when you don't want anything heavy.
Ingredients: A Garden Fresh Delight
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for beginner cooks looking for easy recipes. Let's gather our ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
This quick dinner idea comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps:
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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. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
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Add the Zucchini: Add the diced zucchini to the saucepan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften. Don't overcook the zucchini; you want it to retain some texture.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bring to a Gentle Boil: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, with crusty bread, or as a filling for stuffed shells.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh herbs will significantly elevate the flavor of your sauce. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount slightly.
- Don't Overcook the Zucchini: Overcooked zucchini can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp zucchini for the best texture.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce frequently and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 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 throughout the week.
Variations: Explore Your Culinary Creativity
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add Meat: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or chicken can be browned and added to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Creamy Zucchini Sauce: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This healthy meal provides a good source of vitamins and fiber. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving offers roughly:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This easy zucchini and tomato sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to everyone, while its delicious flavor and versatility will impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy!