Description
A hearty and healthy vegetable meat sauce perfect for pasta, lasagna, or as a savory topping for baked potatoes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked lentils or meat substitute (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini, cooking until tender (approximately 5–7 minutes).
- Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- If desired, stir in the cooked lentils or meat substitute for added protein.
- Let the sauce simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Serve hot over pasta or use as a filling for lasagna, and garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering stage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg