Sauce Like A Boss
Who doesn't love a good pasta sauce? I have always used store bought jars of pasta sauce and never really wanted to take on the challenge of making my own from scratch. Until recently that is. I decided to test out a few recipes on my own, but I did have a few requirements. This sauce needs to be....
Quick
Easy
Healthy(ish)
Have a hint of sweetness
With a little subtle heat
So, I did some testing of ingredients and blending of recipes and found a winner. I am so excited to share this sauce with you!
WHAT TO BUY:
- 1 28oz can of whole peeled plum tomatoes w/basil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 tsp chili flakes (or more if you like heat)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Honey (or Agave Nectar)
- 2-3 frozen garlic cubes from Trader Joes (equates to 2-3 cloves)
- 2 cups of chopped onions + celery blend (you can buy pre-cut at TJ's)
- 2 handfuls of chopped basil
- 1 tsp salt (I used pink Himalayan)
- 1 tsp pepper
HOW YA DO IT:
- Saute onions, celery and garlic in olive oil until onions are translucent
- Sprinkle 1/2 salt + pepper and let simmer
- Add in the can of tomatoes, oregano, parsley, basil, bay leaves, chili flakes and thyme and let these simmer on medium for about 20-25 minutes (stirring on and off as you go)
- Add in the honey, garlic salt + remaining salt + pepper
- Stir in 1/2 cup of water and let simmer on low for another 5-10 minutes (the longer the better)
- Make a pasta of your choice. A favorite of mine is Banza chickpea penne. I usually cook the pasta and then rinse it with water to get the extra film off. I also add a bit of olive oil and salt to make the consistency even better
- Add your sauce to the pasta and top with a protein or veggie of choice along with some ricotta or fresh mozzarella. I use Kite Hill Almond Ricotta Cheese.