Pasta con sugo di pomodoro e verdure nascoste

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: crushed tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes can enhance flavor, while crushed tomatoes are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits, while vegetable oil is more budget-friendly.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey can add a unique flavor, while brown sugar is a cost-effective sweetener.

dried oregano

🥗Healthier: fresh oregano

💰Cheaper: Italian seasoning

Fresh oregano provides vibrant flavor, while Italian seasoning is often cheaper.

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.

Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add diced carrots and celery, cooking until softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Pour in canned tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.

Season with dried oregano, basil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Add bay leaves and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Reduce heat to low and let simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Dietary