2 5 Challenge Friendly Real Pasta Sauce Recipe

This vibrant pasta sauce is packed with flavor and perfectly aligns with the 2 fruit and 5 vegetable-a-day eating plan! Sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, and garlic create a delicious and healthy sauce. A simple recipe, ready in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight meal.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 100.8 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 4.0 (2 Reviews)
2 5 Challenge Friendly Real Pasta Sauce

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for 2 5 Challenge Friendly Real Pasta Sauce

  • Chopped Tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen sweetcorn
  • Garlic Clove
  • Dried Herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt And Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make 2 5 Challenge Friendly Real Pasta Sauce

  1. Finely chop 1 medium onion, 1 bell pepper (any color), 1 medium zucchini, and 8 oz cremini mushrooms.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté until softened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 cup frozen sweetcorn, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add 4 cloves minced garlic during the last 10 minutes of simmering. (Don't overcook the garlic!)
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more paprika, salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
  7. Serve over your favorite pasta. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

34g

Fat

1g

Carbs

7g