Pasta Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Ideas

Pasta is one of the world’s favorite comfort foods, and a delicious sauce can elevate a humble plate of noodles into a memorable meal. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, this vegetarian pasta sauce recipe is a fantastic choice.

Bursting with fresh vegetables, herbs, and rich tomato flavors, it’s both wholesome and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.

What makes this sauce stand out is its balance of flavors — the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the earthiness of garlic and mushrooms, and the vibrant zing of fresh basil and oregano. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up this sauce, and it pairs beautifully with any type of pasta, from spaghetti to penne, or even as a base for baked dishes.

Ready to bring some veggie goodness and Italian flair to your table? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian pasta sauce is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that anyone can master. Here’s why it’s a keeper:

• Fresh and wholesome: Made with garden-fresh vegetables and herbs, this sauce is nutrient-rich and free from preservatives.
• Easy to customize: You can add your favorite vegetables or switch up the herbs to suit your taste.
• Versatile: Use it with any pasta, over roasted vegetables, or as a base for other vegetarian dishes.
• Rich flavor without meat: The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and herbs gives it a deep umami taste.
• Great for meal prep: This sauce stores well in the fridge or freezer and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large non-stick or stainless-steel skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener (for crushed tomatoes)
• Optional: Blender or immersion blender (for smoother sauce)

Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables. Finely chop the onion and carrot, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms. Having all ingredients ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
2. Heat the olive oil. Place your skillet or saucepan over medium heat and warm the 2 tablespoons olive oil until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sauté the aromatics. Add the chopped onion and carrot to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the carrot softens.
4. Add the garlic and mushrooms. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes, letting the mushrooms release their moisture and brown slightly.
5. Incorporate tomato paste. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pan. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
6. Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Pour in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything evenly.
7. Season the sauce. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and if you like a little heat, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Simmer gently. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
9. Adjust acidity and sweetness. Taste your sauce. If it’s too acidic, stir in 1 teaspoon sugar to balance the flavors.
10. Finish with fresh herbs. Just before serving, add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Stir well to infuse the sauce with vibrant herbal notes.
11. Optional: Blend for smoothness. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce carefully to a blender and puree until desired consistency is reached.

Tips & Variations

“Use fresh, ripe tomatoes in season for an even more vibrant sauce. Roasting tomatoes beforehand can add a smoky depth.”

• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition and texture, try adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant along with the mushrooms.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili peppers to give a kick to your sauce.
• Use different herbs: Swap out oregano and basil for thyme, rosemary, or marjoram depending on your preference.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of plant-based cream or coconut milk at the end for a luscious texture. For an excellent creamy pasta sauce alternative, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
• Make ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Pair with different pastas: Try it with penne, rigatoni, or even spiralized veggie noodles.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition information is approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and quantities used.

Serving Suggestions

This sauce is a true multitasker in the kitchen. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

• Toss it with your favorite pasta and sprinkle with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a satisfying meal.
• Use as a base for a hearty vegetable lasagna, layering it with noodles, ricotta, and spinach. For inspiration, see our Vegetable Lasagna Stouffer’s Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.
• Serve it over roasted or grilled vegetables for a light yet flavorful dish.
• Make a quick shakshuka-style meal by simmering eggs in this sauce (or use tofu for a vegan version).
• Use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or as a topping for veggie meatballs. Check out our Ikea Veggie Balls Recipe: Easy Homemade Meatless Delight for a perfect pairing.

Conclusion

This vegetarian pasta sauce is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection—simple enough for weeknight cooking but flavorful enough to impress guests. Its fresh ingredients and balanced taste make it a staple for anyone looking to enjoy hearty, plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor.

Plus, the ability to customize and store this sauce means you can adapt it to your lifestyle and preferences with ease.

Next time you want a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and delicious, reach for this sauce as your go-to. For more creative vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our collection like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas to complement your culinary adventures.

Happy cooking!

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