Low Sodium Spaghetti Sauce With Fresh Tomatoes
Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that most Americans love. It's easy to prepare, and you can add different ingredients to make it more flavorful. One of the essential ingredients in spaghetti sauce is tomato sauce. However, most tomato sauces are high in sodium, which can be harmful to your health. Luckily, you can make a low-sodium spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes without compromising the flavor.
The Importance of Low Sodium in Your Diet
According to the American Heart Association, most Americans consume more sodium than they need, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. A low-sodium diet can help to reduce the risk of these health problems.
Reducing sodium intake can be challenging, especially when you consider that most processed foods are high in sodium. However, making your meals at home is an excellent way to control your sodium intake.
Ingredients for Low Sodium Spaghetti Sauce With Fresh Tomatoes
Here are the ingredients you need to make low sodium spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes:
- 6 large fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Start by washing the tomatoes and removing the stems. Cut the tomatoes into small pieces and set them aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir to combine all the ingredients and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft.
- Add the water and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the sauce cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the sauce to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Return the sauce to the skillet and heat it over medium heat for a few minutes.
- Your low-sodium spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes is now ready to use! Serve it over your favorite pasta.
Conclusion
Low-sodium spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes is a healthy and delicious alternative to the high-sodium sauces available in stores. Making your spaghetti sauce at home allows you to control the sodium content and customize the flavor to your liking. This recipe is easy to make, and you can store the leftover sauce in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Enjoy your low-sodium spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes and take care of your health!