Cento Vegetable Paste Recipe for Easy Flavor Boosts

When it comes to versatile and flavorful condiments that can elevate any dish, vegetable paste stands out as a kitchen essential. The Cento vegetable paste recipe is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, simmered to perfection and reduced into a rich, thick paste.

This paste can be used as a base for sauces, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for crackers and veggies. The best part?

It’s incredibly simple to make and uses everyday ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

This recipe captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking, focusing on wholesome, natural flavors without any artificial additives. It’s a fantastic way to add depth and nutrition to your meals while keeping things light and fresh.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, this Cento vegetable paste will soon become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Cento vegetable paste recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients combined in a way that brings out their natural sweetness and earthiness. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Easy to make: Minimal prep and straightforward cooking steps make this recipe accessible for everyone.
• Versatile: Use it as a spread, dip, or a flavor boost in soups, stews, and pasta dishes.
• Healthy: Packed with vitamins and fiber from a variety of vegetables and herbs.
• Long shelf life: When stored properly, this paste lasts for weeks in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the vegetable mix or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a hint of acidity)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Food processor or blender
• Measuring spoons
• Storage jars or airtight containers

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion into small uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the carrots and bell pepper: Toss in the carrots and bell pepper, cooking for about 7-8 minutes or until they start to soften, stirring occasionally.
5. Incorporate zucchini and tomatoes: Add the chopped zucchini along with the crushed tomatoes to the pan. Stir well to combine all the vegetables.
6. Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
7. Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the vegetables simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The mixture should reduce and thicken.
8. Add balsamic vinegar: Stir in the balsamic vinegar for a subtle tangy note. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Blend the paste: Transfer the cooked vegetables to a food processor or blender. Pulse until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. For a chunkier texture, pulse less.
10. Cool and store: Allow the vegetable paste to cool to room temperature. Transfer to clean jars or airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or spinach for unique flavor twists!”

Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano or basil on hand, chop about 1 tablespoon each and add them during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a brighter flavor.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to introduce a gentle heat.

Make it vegan and oil-free: Substitute olive oil with vegetable broth for sautéing the vegetables to reduce fat content.

Store properly: If freezing, portion the paste in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a ziplock bag for easy use in small amounts.

Texture preference: For a chunkier paste, blend less, or for a silky smooth spread, blend longer and strain if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Cento vegetable paste is remarkably versatile and can be served in numerous ways to enhance your meals:

• Spread on toast or crackers: A healthy and flavorful snack or appetizer.
• Mix into pasta sauces: Stir into your favorite tomato or cream sauces for added depth.
• Use as a base for soups: Add a couple of tablespoons to vegetable or bean soups for rich flavor.
• Top grilled veggies or proteins: Dollop on grilled tofu, seitan, or roasted vegetables.
• Sandwich or wrap filling: Use as a flavorful spread in vegetarian or vegan sandwiches and wraps.
• Dip for fresh vegetables: Serve with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a healthy snack.

For more vibrant vegetarian ideas that complement this paste, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and explore how ancient grains can elevate your meals in the Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

If you love a little spice, our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend will pair beautifully with this paste.

Conclusion

Making your own Cento vegetable paste is a rewarding and delicious way to bring fresh, wholesome flavors into your kitchen. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

Whether as a spread, a dip, or a cooking base, this vegetable paste enriches your meals with vibrant colors and nutrients. The long shelf life and simple ingredients make it a fantastic staple for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

By embracing fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, you’re not only creating a tasty condiment but also incorporating more nutrition into your diet. Give this recipe a try and watch how it transforms everyday dishes into delightful culinary experiences.

For more inspiring and healthful vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our extensive collection and keep your cooking exciting and nourishing!

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