Chunky Veg Pasta Sauce Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty, chunky vegetable pasta sauce. It’s the perfect blend of fresh, vibrant vegetables simmered slowly in a rich tomato base, creating a sauce that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this chunky veg pasta sauce recipe is a delicious way to add more veggies to your plate. It’s versatile, easy to make, and freezes beautifully for later use.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with any pasta, from spaghetti to penne or even gnocchi.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a sauce full of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots, all cooked down with garlic and herbs for an irresistible taste.

If you want to elevate your pasta game, this chunky vegetable sauce is just the answer. Keep reading to find out why this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chunky veg pasta sauce is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, nutrient-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Here’s why you’ll want to try it right away:

• Loaded with fresh vegetables: Boost your daily veggie intake effortlessly.
• Rich and flavorful: Slow simmering enhances the natural sweetness and depth of the tomatoes and veggies.
• Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite vegetables or add protein like ground meat or beans.
• Great for meal prep: Makes a large batch that freezes well for quick dinners.
• Vegetarian and vegan friendly: Naturally free from animal products but can be adapted easily.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Can opener
• Measuring spoons
• Lid for the pan (optional, to help simmer)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil: Place your sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let it warm up for about a minute.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped vegetables: Stir in the carrot, zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften but still have some bite.
4. Incorporate tomato ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
5. Season your sauce: Add dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid (or partially cover), and let the sauce simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning: After simmering, taste your sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
8. Serve or store: Use immediately over your favorite pasta or allow to cool and store in airtight containers for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips & Variations

“To get the best texture, make sure not to overcook the vegetables during the sautéing stage – they should be tender but still hold their shape.”

Here are some ways to make this sauce your own:

• Add protein: Brown ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage before cooking the vegetables for a meaty version.
• Make it vegan: Use only vegetables and add plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Spice it up: Add chili powder, smoked paprika, or fresh chili peppers for a smoky or spicy kick.
• Use fresh herbs: Swap dried oregano and basil for fresh herbs added near the end of cooking for a brighter flavor.
• Roast your vegetables: For a deeper flavor, roast the vegetables before adding them to the sauce.
• Try other veggies: Eggplant, spinach, or kale can be great additions or substitutes.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values will vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size.

Serving Suggestions

This chunky veg pasta sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Serve over your favorite pasta such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti for a classic Italian dinner.
• Use as a hearty topping for baked potatoes or polenta for a comforting twist.
• Layer into lasagna or stuffed pasta shells for a veggie-packed filling.
• Mix into cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a nutritious bowl.
• Top grilled chicken or fish with a spoonful of this chunky sauce for extra flavor.

For more delicious vegetable-focused recipes, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe and Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe. If you’re interested in protein-packed options, the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe is a great choice.

Conclusion

This chunky veg pasta sauce recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. With its rich tomato base and colorful vegetables, it’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a nutritious way to add more veggies to your diet.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, feed your family, or meal prep for the week, this sauce is incredibly versatile and simple to make.

Plus, it’s easy to adapt and personalize based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Give this recipe a try and discover how a simple, chunky vegetable sauce can transform your pasta dishes into something truly special.

Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and explore other exciting dishes on our site for more inspiration!

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