Heart-Healthy Spicy Tomato Sauce
Elevate your meals with this flavorful Heart-Healthy Spicy Tomato Sauce, a guilt-free indulgence crafted for cardiovascular wellness without sacrificing taste. This vibrant recipe features heart-smart ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and no-salt-added crushed tomatoes, combined with bold spices such as red chili flakes and smoky paprika for a memorable kick. The addition of balsamic vinegar ensures a tangy depth, while fragrant dried herbs like basil and oregano infuse classic Italian flair. Ready in just 35 minutes, this versatile sauce pairs perfectly with whole-grain pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a zesty dip. Packed with antioxidants and rich in flavor, it's a healthier way to enjoy a comforting tomato sauce without the extra sodium—perfect for a balanced lifestyle!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium, finely diced yellow onion
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes (no salt added)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika (optional, for additional smoky flavor)
- 2 tablespoons, finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon, or to taste ground black pepper
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well to combine.
Mix in the balsamic vinegar, dried basil, dried oregano, and paprika (if using).
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste and season with ground black pepper as needed. Adjust spiciness by adding more red chili flakes, if desired.
Remove from heat, stir in the fresh parsley, and serve warm over your favorite dish. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
556 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.0 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 92 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 73.3 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.8 g | 67% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.0 g | ||
| Protein | 14.2 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 238 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 6.2 mg | 34% | |
| Potassium | 2583 mg | 55% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
