This versatile Mediterranean-style sauce offers a rich, home-cooked flavor profile that elevates simple meals. Built on a foundation of slowly sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh peppers, it develops a deep, savory base. The addition of canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste creates a hearty, velvety texture that clings beautifully to pasta. Infused with classic herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano, along with a hint of heat from jalapeño and black pepper, this sauce is balanced yet vibrant. It is an ideal companion for weeknight dinners, lasagna layers, or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, it delivers consistent, comforting results every time.
Sauce
Description
This versatile Mediterranean-style sauce offers a rich, home-cooked flavor profile that elevates simple meals. Built on a foundation of slowly saut&# 195;©ed onions, garlic, and fresh peppers, it develops a deep, savory base. The addition of canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste creates a hearty, velvety texture that clings beautifully to pasta. Infused with classic herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano, along with a hint of heat from jalapeño and black pepper, this sauce is balanced yet vibrant. It is an ideal companion for weeknight dinners, lasagna layers, or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, it delivers consistent, comforting results every time.Ingredients
Directions
-
Heat the vegetable or olive oil in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
-
Add the finely chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Stir in the minced garlic or shallot, green pepper, red pepper, and jalapeño; sauté for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
-
Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the pan.
-
Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, sweet basil, bay leaf, and ground black pepper.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
-
Cover and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 301.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10.6g17%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 934.0mg39%
- Total Carbohydrate 54.8g19%
- Dietary Fiber 14.9g60%
- Sugars 18.2g
- Protein 9.4g19%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations: For a meat-free protein boost, stir in cooked white beans or lentils during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Adjust the heat level by seeding the jalapeño or adding more black pepper.
Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Fresh basil added just before serving enhances the aroma.
