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+ servings
Hidden Veg Pasta Sauce

Sneaky Hidden Veg Pasta Sauce for Happy, Healthy Families

Discover the delightful Hidden Veg Pasta Sauce, packed with six nutritious vegetables for a healthy meal kids love.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil substitute with avocado oil if desired
  • 2 onions, finely chopped adds sweetness and depth
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic fresh garlic yields the best results
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs fresh herbs offer a vibrant profile
  • 3 stalks celery, finely chopped can substitute with bell peppers
  • 2 medium leeks, finely chopped can be swapped with additional onions
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped butternut squash makes a great alternative
  • 2 medium red bell peppers, finely chopped any color bell pepper can be used
  • 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped yellow squash is another excellent option
  • 2 cans crushed tomatoes (28 oz each) can use passata or fresh tomatoes instead
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste can be omitted for a less concentrated sauce
  • 2 cups stock or broth (chicken or vegetable) opt for low-sodium options for a healthier version or replace with water

Equipment

  • large saucepan
  • immersion blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hidden Veg Pasta Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 finely chopped onions and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, along with 2 teaspoons of dried Italian herbs. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
  2. Incorporate 3 stalks of finely chopped celery, 2 medium leeks, 2 peeled and finely chopped carrots, 2 medium red bell peppers, and 1 medium zucchini. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
  3. Stir in 2 cans of crushed tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, along with 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer uncovered for an additional 20 minutes.
  4. Once cooled, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. For a chunkier texture, pulse briefly instead.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For baby-friendly portions, omit any salt.
  6. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date the containers for your convenience.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 230mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor. Freeze in portioned containers for easy weeknight meals. If the sauce is too acidic, adjust by simmering longer or balancing with a pinch of sugar.

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