Who says you need meat to make a delectable pasta sauce? Our no meat pasta sauce recipe proves that a hearty and flavorful sauce can be made entirely from plant-based ingredients. This recipe is not only meat-free but also versatile, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients. Dive into the world of meatless pasta sauces and embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment:
– Large skillet or Dutch oven
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Sharp knife
– Wooden spoon or spatula
How To Make
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 3 minutes more.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir in any additional seasonings as needed, such as crushed red pepper or a touch of honey for sweetness.
While the sauce simmers, cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions. When the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the sauce. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and coated in the delicious sauce.
Serve the no meat pasta sauce with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese, if desired. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. This versatile sauce can also be served with meatballs, sausages, or tofu for a protein boost.
Tips or Possible Variation
To make a creamy no meat pasta sauce, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sauce while simmering. This will give it a rich and velvety texture.
For a smoky flavor, add 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika to the sauce along with the other seasonings. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
If you don’t have fresh vegetables on hand, you can use frozen vegetables instead. Simply thaw them before adding them to the sauce. Another option is to use a store-bought mirepoix, which is a mixture of chopped onions, carrots, and celery.
This no meat pasta sauce is a perfect way to use up leftover vegetables. Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. The possibilities are endless!
