"Hidden Vegetable" Pasta Sauce

A Saucy Way to Sneak in Veggies Without Compromising Flavor

Adding vegetables to your meals doesn’t have to be a battle or a compromise on flavor. This “Hidden Vegetable” pasta sauce is designed to do exactly that: boost nutrition and expand your palate while keeping the flavors rich and familiar. By blending a variety of veggies into the sauce, you get extra vitamins, fiber, and color without changing the taste your family already loves.

This approach works especially well for picky eaters because the goal is to enhance flavor and nutrition, not to disguise ingredients or trick your partner.The veggies enhance the sauce naturally, creating depth and richness, while the smooth texture keeps it approachable for everyone. Whether tossed with pasta, layered in lasagna, or used as a dipping sauce, this recipe makes it easy to add nutrition to everyday meals without stress, pressure, or complaints at the dinner table.

Yield: 8 servings (8 cups)

Total time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 onion, diced

• salt and pepper

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 2 Tbsp Italian seasoning

• 1 large zucchini, grated

• 1 1/2 c carrots, grated

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 2 c fresh spinach

• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes

• 1 can tomato paste

• 2 c vegetable broth

Directions:

1. Add oil to a dutch oven or large saucepan over medium heat. When oil is hot, add onions, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Sautee for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent.

2. Add zucchini, carrots, bell pepper, and spinach. Sauté until softened, about 6-8 minutes.

3. Then add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a low simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes.

   

4. Once done cooking, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the sauce. Be careful if the sauce is hot!

   

5. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

6. Toss with your favorite pasta and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer-term storage.