Simple Tomato Sauce with Carrot and Herbs
This vegan, gluten-free, and diabetic-friendly tomato sauce is naturally sweetened with grated carrot and finished with fresh herbs for a rich, balanced flavour. It’s a heart-healthy, low-sodium staple perfect for pasta, dipping, or meal prepping.
Servings: 4
Calories: 92.3kcal
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ medium carrot finely grated (about 2–3 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 28 oz tomato canned, whole or crushed, no-salt-added
- 1 tsp oregano dried
- ½ tsp basil dried
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- ¼ tsp rosemary dried
- ¼ cup basil fresh, chopped
- ½ tsp balsamic vinegar
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.1 tbsp olive oil
- Add the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until softened and translucent.1 small onion
- Stir in the garlic and grated carrot. Cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.2 cloves garlic, ½ medium carrot
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor.2 tbsp tomato paste
- Pour in the canned tomatoes. If using whole tomatoes, crush them gently with a spoon or break them apart before adding.28 oz tomato
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and rosemary.1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp basil, ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ tsp rosemary
- Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil and vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper.¼ cup basil, ½ tsp balsamic vinegar, ⅛ tsp salt, ⅛ tsp pepper
- Use as desired, or let cool and store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Cooking Tips
- Use a Good Tomato Base: Choose San Marzano or no-salt-added tomatoes for the best flavor and control over sodium.
- Grate the Carrot Finely: This ensures it melts into the sauce, naturally enhancing sweetness without added sugars.
- Adjust Consistency: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce, or blend for a smooth, marinara-style finish.
- Boost Freshness: Stir in fresh basil at the end to preserve aroma and brightness.
- Double the Batch: This freezes well—portion into containers for quick, healthy meals later.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Simple Tomato Sauce with Carrot and Herbs
Serving Size
1 cup
Amount per Serving
Calories
92.3
% Daily Value*
Fat
4
g
6
%
Saturated Fat
0.6
g
4
%
Sodium
154.9
mg
7
%
Potassium
636.8
mg
18
%
Carbohydrates
13.6
g
5
%
Fiber
3.7
g
15
%
Sugar
7.9
g
9
%
Protein
2.7
g
5
%
Vitamin C
32.2
mg
39
%
Calcium
46
mg
5
%
Iron
1.2
mg
7
%
Magnesium
31.9
mg
8
%
Zinc
0.5
mg
3
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.