Mediterranean Spaghetti Sauce Recipe No Meat
A flavorful and easy-to-make Mediterranean spaghetti sauce that’s perfect for vegetarians and those following a plant-based diet. Rich in tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, this sauce is ideal for anyone seeking a healthy, satisfying, and no meat spaghetti sauce option.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin, for best results
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 large red bell pepper diced
- 6 cups ripe tomatoes diced (or 2 cans of crushed tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup kalamata olives pitted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a kick
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish optional
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and bell pepper: Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers begin to soften.
- Add tomatoes and tomato paste: Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
- Add olives, capers, and herbs: Stir in the chopped kalamata olives, capers, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce continue to simmer on low heat for an additional 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Balance the flavors: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If the sauce is too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance it out. Simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot. Pair it with a slice of warm bread or a side salad for the perfect Mediterranean meal.
Notes
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the heart of this sauce. You can also use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich, fruity flavor. Regular olive oil can be used as a substitute.
Kalamata Olives: These briny olives give the sauce a deep, robust flavor. You can replace them with regular black olives if needed.
Capers: These little salty buds add a briny punch to the sauce. If you don’t have capers, you can skip them, but they do add a unique depth.
Herbs: Oregano and basil are essential in creating the Italian-style spaghetti sauce flavor. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones if you have them on hand.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich, fruity flavor. Regular olive oil can be used as a substitute.
Kalamata Olives: These briny olives give the sauce a deep, robust flavor. You can replace them with regular black olives if needed.
Capers: These little salty buds add a briny punch to the sauce. If you don’t have capers, you can skip them, but they do add a unique depth.
Herbs: Oregano and basil are essential in creating the Italian-style spaghetti sauce flavor. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones if you have them on hand.