Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Marinara Sauce Recipe
When you try this Vegetarian Marinara Sauce recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with fresh vegetables that create a delightful medley of tastes.
I love how easy it’s to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it over pasta, use it in lasagna, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
Each spoonful is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, and trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Marinara Sauce
When it comes to making a delicious Vegetarian Marinara Sauce, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. This recipe isn’t only simple but also allows you to pack in a rainbow of flavors, thanks to the fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs.
Just imagine how wonderful your kitchen will smell as you sauté garlic and onions, setting the stage for a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for those picky eaters.
Let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delightful sauce.
Ingredients for Vegetarian Marinara Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped small
- 1 large sweet red pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 large green pepper, seeded and diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 10 ounces canned mushrooms (bits & pieces, including liquid)
- 28 fluid ounces canned plum tomatoes (including liquid)
- 6 fluid ounces tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon spicy Italian seasoning
- 3 large bay leaves
- 3 large celery ribs, chopped small
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Now, while gathering these ingredients, keep a couple of things in mind. Fresh vegetables can really elevate this sauce, so if you have access to local farmers’ markets, grab some seasonal produce.
You can even swap in your favorites—maybe some zucchini or spinach? And don’t skimp on the herbs; they’re what take this sauce from good to absolutely mouthwatering.
If you find yourself with a little extra time, fresh basil adds a vibrant touch that dried herbs simply can’t match. Just remember, cooking should be fun, so feel free to get creative with what you have on hand!
How to Make Vegetarian Marinara Sauce
Making your very own Vegetarian Marinara Sauce is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, so let’s get cooking. First, grab your 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and heat it in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once that oil is shimmering like a pool of liquid gold, toss in 6 cloves of minced garlic and 1 chopped large onion. Sauté these together until the onions become transparent—about 5 minutes. Trust me, this is where the magic begins. The smell is incredible, and you might find yourself daydreaming about all the pasta you can pair this sauce with.
Now that your garlic and onions are ready, it’s time to add some color and crunch. Stir in 1 large sweet red pepper and 1 large green pepper, both diced, and let them sauté for another minute. You want them to be vibrant but still a bit crisp.
Next, transfer this fragrant mixture into a large heavy-bottomed cooking pot—this is where the real simmering action happens. Into the pot, throw in 3 diced medium carrots, a 10-ounce can of mushrooms (liquid included, of course), and a hefty 28-ounce can of plum tomatoes (yes, every bit of the juice).
Then, add 6 ounces of tomato paste, along with 1 tablespoon each of dried oregano and dried basil. Don’t forget to sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh basil for that fresh kick. Season it up with 1 tablespoon of spicy Italian seasoning, 3 bay leaves, and 3 chopped celery ribs.
Finally, toss in 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper—these will help balance the flavors beautifully.
Bring this vibrant concoction to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to cover the pot partially and let it simmer away for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don’t be shy; give it a little taste here and there. Adjust the seasonings if needed—maybe a pinch more salt if you’re feeling it.
Once the sauce is smooth and everything is harmoniously blended, remove the bay leaves and set them aside. And just like that, you have a hearty sauce that can be served over pasta, or even used as a base for sautéed vegetables.
If you’re feeling ambitious, this sauce can also be canned or frozen for a future pasta night. So, who’s ready to dig in?
Vegetarian Marinara Sauce Substitutions & Variations
Ever wondered how you can customize your Vegetarian Marinara Sauce to suit your taste preferences? I love experimenting with different ingredients!
You can swap out the canned mushrooms for fresh ones or use zucchini for added texture. If you want a kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
For a sweeter sauce, toss in some diced bell peppers or reduce the sugar. Don’t forget about herbs—substituting fresh thyme or parsley can create a unique flavor profile.
Get creative, and let your taste buds guide you to the perfect combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
Experimenting with substitutions and variations can really enhance your vegetarian marinara sauce. For a bolder flavor, try adding a splash of red wine while it simmers.
I love tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick! If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some olives or capers for a Mediterranean twist.
Fresh herbs can elevate the taste, so don’t hesitate to swap dried for fresh when possible. Finally, remember to taste as you go; adjusting salt and sugar can make a big difference.
Enjoy the process—it’s all about creating a sauce that you love!