Description
Jamie Oliver’s 7-Veg Sauce is a vegetable-based sauce made by blending seven different types of vegetables, which are cooked down and then puréed into a smooth, rich sauce. This healthy and tasty sauce can be used as a base for pasta, stews, pizzas, or any dish where you’d like to add a nutritious and flavorful vegetable component.
Ingredients
- 2 Onions (roughly chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 Carrots (roughly chopped): Provides sweetness and color.
- 2 Stalks of Celery (roughly chopped): Adds aromatic flavor.
- 2 Zucchini (roughly chopped): Adds moisture and mild flavor.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper (roughly chopped): Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 Small Butternut Squash (peeled and chopped): Adds creaminess and a slight sweetness.
- 3–4 Cloves of Garlic (chopped): Adds depth and aroma.
- Olive Oil (for sautéing): Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- 2 x 14-oz Cans of Tomatoes (or 800g fresh tomatoes, chopped): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Fresh or Dried Herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme): Add an herbal note.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
Instructions
Step 1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
Step 2. Add Remaining Vegetables
Add the chopped zucchini, red bell pepper, and butternut squash to the pot. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 3. Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Add the canned or fresh tomatoes to the pot along with the fresh or dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well, then cover and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are completely tender.
Step 4. Purée the Sauce
Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from heat. Using a blender or an immersion blender, blend the sauce until it’s smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5. Serve or Store
Serve the 7-Veg Sauce over pasta, pizza, or as a base for other dishes. Store any leftover sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.