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Tomato Sauce with Hidden Veggies

Nutrient-packed tomato sauce with finely grated vegetables perfect for picky eaters and families seeking healthier pasta options.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Sauce
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 95
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sauce Base
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
Hidden Vegetables
  • 2 large carrots peeled and finely grated
  • 2 medium zucchini grated
Tomato Components
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes 1 can
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
For Serving
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Equipment

  • Box grater
  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  2. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Add grated carrots to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until carrots begin to soften.
  5. Add grated zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender and moisture has evaporated.
  6. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to remove raw taste and deepen color.
  7. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  8. Bring sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to achieve desired flavor balance.
  10. Serve hot over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

This sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. You can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. The sauce thickens as it cools, so add a splash of pasta water when reheating if needed.