Chunky Vegetable Pasta Sauce Recipe for Easy Weeknight Meals

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty, chunky vegetable pasta sauce simmering on the stove. This sauce is a celebration of fresh vegetables, bursting with vibrant colors and rich flavors that transform any simple pasta dish into a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this chunky vegetable pasta sauce recipe is easy to master and endlessly adaptable to whatever produce you have on hand. It’s perfect for those seeking a nutritious, plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture.

Unlike smooth tomato sauces, this chunky version allows you to savor distinct bites of vegetables alongside your pasta, creating a delightful mouthfeel and a colorful plate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Ready to bring a burst of garden-fresh goodness to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chunky vegetable pasta sauce is a versatile, nutrient-packed dish that suits a variety of diets, including vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. Its robust texture and depth of flavor come from a medley of fresh vegetables sautéed to perfection, then slowly simmered with aromatic herbs and ripe tomatoes.

The sauce is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be customized easily to accommodate your preferred ingredients or whatever you have in your kitchen. It’s a fantastic meal prep option since it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Plus, it’s a great gateway recipe for anyone interested in exploring more Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or other plant-based dishes.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Large pot (for cooking pasta)
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Optional: blender or immersion blender (for smoother texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dice the carrots, celery, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything prepped before you start cooking ensures a smooth process.
2. Heat the olive oil: In your large sauté pan or deep skillet, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, zucchini, and sliced mushrooms. Stir well to combine and cook for 6-8 minutes. The vegetables should begin to soften but still retain some bite.
5. Incorporate tomato flavors: Stir in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to coat all the vegetables evenly.
6. Season the sauce: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add up to ½ cup of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
8. Adjust seasoning and finish: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness.
9. Cook your pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions. Drain well using a colander.
10. Serve: Spoon the chunky vegetable pasta sauce generously over your cooked pasta. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer flavor, try roasting your vegetables before adding them to the sauce. Roasting caramelizes their natural sugars and adds depth.”

If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend half of the mixture with an immersion blender, then stir it back into the pan with the rest of the chunky vegetables. This technique adds creaminess while keeping some texture.

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or what you have on hand. Eggplant, spinach, or kale are excellent additions.

For protein, consider stirring in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based meat alternatives.

This sauce pairs wonderfully with gluten-free pasta or even spiralized vegetable noodles for a low-carb option. For a creamy twist, try topping it with a dollop of our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This chunky vegetable pasta sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over your favorite pasta shape—spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni all work beautifully.

For a hearty meal, pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

For an extra special dinner, try layering this sauce in a baked pasta casserole or use it as a base for a vegetable lasagna. If you enjoy experimenting, check out our collection of Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for complementary ideas.

Leftovers make a great topping for roasted vegetables or a filling for savory crepes. You can even mix it into cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a quick, nutritious bowl.

Conclusion

Making your own chunky vegetable pasta sauce at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that everyone will love. It’s a straightforward recipe that embraces the natural goodness of fresh vegetables, enhanced with classic Italian herbs and a touch of spice.

Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but it also provides a nutritious boost to your diet, supporting a healthy lifestyle without compromising on comfort or indulgence. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your preferences and pantry staples.

Next time you want a simple yet impressive pasta sauce, give this recipe a try. And if you’re interested in more wholesome plant-based dishes, be sure to explore our other recipes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy cooking!

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