Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce is a delicious, versatile sauce packed with nutritious vegetables. This sauce is perfect as a pasta base, pizza topping, or even as a dipping sauce. Loaded with fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, it’s an easy way to add extra veggies to your meals while delivering great flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Nutritious: Packed with vegetables for added vitamins and fiber.
Versatile: Use for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.

Family-Friendly: Great for kids and adults alike.
Easy to Store: Can be refrigerated or frozen for quick meals.
Deliciously Flavorful: Slow-cooked veggies bring out a rich, hearty taste.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce?

Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce is a vegetable-based sauce that combines tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and herbs. It’s versatile and can be used in various dishes, adding both flavor and nutrition to meals.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, grated
1 zucchini, grated

1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste

Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Carrot, Zucchini, and Bell Pepper

Stir in the grated carrot, grated zucchini, and diced bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the chopped tomatoes and add the tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or basil.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have blended together.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. If you like it chunky, leave as is.

Step 6: Serve or Store

Serve the sauce immediately with pasta, on pizza, or as desired. Garnish with fresh basil if you like. To store, let the sauce cool, then refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Other Recipes

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

Pasta: Toss with spaghetti, penne, or fusilli for a veggie-rich pasta dish.
Pizza: Use as a pizza base sauce.
Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dip for breadsticks or garlic bread.

Eggplant Parmesan: Layer in casseroles for added flavor.
Stuffed Peppers: Use as a sauce for stuffed vegetables.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

Grate the Vegetables: Grating carrots and zucchini allow them to blend smoothly into the sauce.

Adjust Consistency: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce, or add a bit of vegetable stock if you prefer a thinner sauce.
Add Fresh Herbs Last: For a burst of freshness, add fresh basil at the end.
Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Good-quality canned tomatoes make a difference in flavor.

Blend for a Smooth Texture: Use a blender if you prefer a silky sauce.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added greens.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a creamier sauce.
Extra Herbs: Try adding thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Roasted Veggies: Roast the veggies before adding to the sauce for a deeper flavor.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, portion into containers or ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce

Freeze in small portions in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for easier storage. Thaw in the fridge or reheat on the stovetop as needed.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 110 kcal

Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 12g

Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s veg tomato sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, so you can make a big batch and freeze in portions for quick meals.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for veg tomato sauce?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, especially if they’re in season. Blanch, peel and chop the tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may need a bit longer to cook down and develop flavor.

How can I make this tomato sauce smoother?

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot, or transfer it to a blender. Blend until it reaches your desired consistency, then return it to the pan to finish cooking if needed.

What vegetables can I add to this tomato sauce?

You can add a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or even celery, depending on your preference. Grated vegetables like carrots and zucchini blend well and add extra nutrition without altering the sauce’s texture too much.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Veg Tomato Sauce is a healthy, flavorful, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for adding more vegetables to your meals. Whether you use it as a pasta sauce, pizza base, or dipping sauce, this veggie-packed sauce is sure to please. Make a big batch to enjoy now and freeze for future meals.