Super Simple Marinara Sauce🍅✨

This easy, plant-based marinara sauce is full of rich, savory flavors and packed with veggies! Perfect for pasta, zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or as a dipping sauce. Here's the recipe halved for convenience.


Ingredients (Serves 1-2):

  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (or water for oil-free cooking)
  • 1/2 medium sweet onion, diced 🧅
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced at least 10 minutes before using 🧄
  • 1 medium sweet pepper, chopped 🌶️
  • 1-2 carrots, grated 🥕
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano 🌿
  • 1/2 tablespoon dried basil 🌿
  • 1 teaspoon pink Himalayan salt (to taste) 🧂
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 large can diced tomatoes 🍅
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  •  

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base:
    • In a large stockpot, heat olive oil (or water) over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened (about 3-5 minutes).
    • Add garlic and cook until lightly golden and aromatic (1-2 minutes).
  2. Add the Veggies:
    • Stir in sweet peppers and grated carrots. Sauté for 5-10 minutes until softened.
    • Add dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and stir to coat the veggies. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to release the herb flavors.
  3. Add the Tomatoes:
    • Lightly blend the diced tomatoes in a blender for a smoother consistency, if desired. 
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  4. Balance the Acidity:
    • Stir in the baking soda to cut the acidity of the tomatoes. The sauce will fizz slightly—that's the magic happening! ✨
  5. Serve:
    • Pair this marinara sauce with your choice of zucchini ravioli, whole-grain pasta, vegetable noodles, or spaghetti squash. Enjoy! 😋

  Nutrition Commentary 🍓🍌🥬

  • Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene for healthy skin and eyes. 🥕
  • Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that promotes heart health. ❤️

This Super Simple Marinara Sauce is as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep days! 🌿🍽️