High-Protein Vegan Pasta Sauce Recipe

High-Protein Vegan Pasta Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 large “ugly” NJ tomatoes, skin removed (microwave trick works great!)
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked lentils or chickpeas
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• Oregano, to taste
• Parsley, to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Stevia, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste
• Olive oil, for sautéing

Preparation:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:

Start by preparing the tomatoes. To remove the skins, use the microwave trick: make a small “X” incision at the base of each tomato, place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then peel off the skins once they’ve cooled slightly. This method is quick and efficient, ensuring you get smooth and skin-free tomatoes for your sauce.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large pot or a RockPot (such as those from Pampered Chef), heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step will form the aromatic base of your sauce.

3. Combine Ingredients:

Add the skinned tomatoes to the pot. Using a wooden spoon, break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces, releasing their juices. This will create a chunky tomato base for your sauce.

4. Add Protein-Rich Ingredients:

Stir in 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas. These legumes will add a significant amount of protein to the sauce, making it hearty and nutritious.

5. Season the Sauce:

Season the sauce with oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. For a touch of sweetness, add a small amount of stevia. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.

6. Nutritional Yeast:

Add 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast. This will add a cheesy flavor and additional protein to the sauce. Nutritional yeast is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your vegan recipes.