Hidden Veggie Pasta Sauce (6 Different Veggies!)
This Hidden Veggie Pasta Sauce is a smooth, flavorful homemade tomato sauce made with zucchini, carrots, cauliflower, and bell pepper blended right in. It's freezer-friendly, easy to make ahead, and perfect for serving over pasta, layering into lasagna, or using in your favorite Italian-inspired recipes.
Servings 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 zucchini (chopped)
- 2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (can omit if making for a baby)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Add zucchini, carrots, bell pepper, and cauliflower. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt (if using), pepper, paprika.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cover partially with a lid. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft.
- Carefully transfer the sauce to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot) and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Serve over your pasta and enjoy!
Notes
- This sauce freezes beautifully. I like to portion leftovers into soup cubes, then thaw and reheat on the stovetop as needed.
- For a richer flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
- Stir in freshly grated Parmesan or a splash of heavy cream after blending for a creamier sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed before tossing with pasta.
Did you make this recipe?Don't forget to tag @lovelydelites across all social media platforms!