This quick chunky tomato sauce is a weeknight lifesaver, bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors. By simmering diced carrots and zucchini directly in the sauce, you add a delightful texture and natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the stewed tomatoes. The aromatics of garlic, onion, dried basil, and oregano create a deep, savory base, while a pinch of hot pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth. It’s incredibly versatile: toss it with pasta, spoon it over grilled chicken, or use it as a base for a light soup. Simple ingredients come together in under an hour to create a robust, wholesome sauce that feels homemade and comforting.
Quick Chunky Tomato Sauce
Description
This quick chunky tomato sauce is a weeknight lifesaver, bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors. By simmering diced carrots and zucchini directly in the sauce, you add a delightful texture and natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the stewed tomatoes. The aromatics of garlic, onion, dried basil, and oregano create a deep, savory base, while a pinch of hot pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth. It&# 226;ÂÂs incredibly versatile: toss it with pasta, spoon it over grilled chicken, or use it as a base for a light soup. Simple ingredients come together in under an hour to create a robust, wholesome sauce that feels homemade and comforting.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Add diced carrots, zucchini, and chopped onion to the skillet.
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Sauté vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Stir in minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and hot pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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In a separate bowl, use a potato masher to roughly crush the stewed tomatoes.
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Pour the mashed tomatoes and tomato paste into the skillet with the vegetables.
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Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Increase heat to high to bring the sauce to a boil.
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Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and vegetables are tender.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
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Serve warm over pasta, grains, or grilled protein.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 132.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.7g6%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1311.7mg55%
- Total Carbohydrate 27.0g9%
- Dietary Fiber 9.5g38%
- Sugars 6.4g
- Protein 5.3g11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
