California Grown Pizza Sauce
Pizza is a staple in many households, loved for its versatility and flavor. One of the best parts of pizza is the sauce. Making a fresh, homemade pizza sauce is easier than you might think, especially with a California Grown twist. This California Grown Pizza Sauce is a healthier version of traditional sauces, focusing on fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be used in a variety of recipes.
In this article, you will learn not only how to make this delicious pizza sauce but also how it can enhance your healthy eating habits.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This California Grown Pizza Sauce is more than just a flavorful addition to your meals; it also offers plenty of health benefits. With minimal calories and no added sugars, this sauce is great for anyone looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.
This low-calorie pizza sauce is packed with flavor from fresh ingredients. It’s a lighter option than store-bought sauces which often contain preservatives and added sugars. Plus, it’s versatile enough for meal prep! You can make a large batch, portion it out, and use it throughout the week, making it easier to stick to your health goals.
How to Make California Grown Pizza Sauce
Making California Grown Pizza Sauce is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You’ll have flavorful sauce ready in no time!
Equipment Needed
- Medium sauté pan or skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Food processor or blender (optional)
- Airtight container for storage
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
- 1 yellow onion (small diced)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 28 ounces canned whole plum tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons oregano (dried)
- 1 teaspoon basil (dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a medium sauté pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
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Next, add the tomato paste. Allow it to cook for another 3 minutes, stirring until the color begins to darken.
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Now, add canned whole plum tomatoes. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently break them apart. Stir in the oregano, basil, bay leaf, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
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Allow the sauce to simmer on low for about 15 minutes. Check for seasoning. If you’d like a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
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Optionally, you can puree the sauce in a food processor or blender for a smooth texture or keep it chunky, depending on your preference.
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Cool the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
How to Serve California Grown Pizza Sauce
This sauce is great on traditional pizza crust, but it can also be used in many other ways. Spread it over whole wheat tortillas for a quick pizza wrap or use it as a dipping sauce for fresh veggies. Portion out your servings to maintain control over calorie intake and keep your meals in check. Enjoy a healthy serving with a side salad or some air-fried vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.
Storage & Freezing California Grown Pizza Sauce
You can keep this sauce in your fridge for up to five days in an airtight container. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, label, and date them. The sauce can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
Serving Suggestions
For a balanced meal, pair your California Grown Pizza Sauce with a side salad topped with fresh vegetables and a lean protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. These additions can enhance the nutritional profile of your meal, providing both fiber and protein.
Variations
Healthier Version
Make a lighter version by using less olive oil and opting for fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. You can also add more vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
High-Protein or Low-Carb Version
For a high-protein twist, you might consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas to the sauce while it simmers. This not only increases protein content but also makes the sauce heartier. For low-carb options, serve the sauce with zucchini noodles or cauliflower crusted pizza.
Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version
You can use this sauce with air-fried pizzas. Top a cauliflower crust with the sauce and your favorite toppings, then air fry for a healthier pizza option. Alternatively, bake your personal pizzas in the oven for a crispy finish.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage.
Is this pizza sauce healthy?
Absolutely! This California Grown Pizza Sauce is low in calories and does not contain added sugars or preservatives, making it a healthy option for pizza lovers.
How can I make this sauce less spicy?
If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can this sauce be used for other recipes?
Yes! This sauce is versatile and can be used in pasta dishes, as a dipping sauce, or even in homemade casseroles.
Make-Ahead Tips for California Grown Pizza Sauce
One of the best parts of this recipe is that it is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch of the sauce at once and store it in portions for later use.
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Plan your meals: Decide on your meal plan for the week and portion out the sauce accordingly. This helps you keep track of your intake and saves time during busy weekdays.
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Keep it in the fridge or freezer: Store portions in your fridge for the week or freeze extras in manageable servings. When you are ready to use the sauce, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
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Versatile uses: Think beyond pizza! Use the sauce in various recipes, making it a valuable addition to your meal prep.
Whether you’re preparing a family pizza night, a busy week ahead, or simply looking for a flavor-packed sauce, this California Grown Pizza Sauce is a fantastic option. With its health benefits and versatility, you can create meals that are not just flavorful but also good for your well-being!
California Grown Pizza Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium sauté pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Next, add the tomato paste. Allow it to cook for another 3 minutes, stirring until the color begins to darken.
- Add canned whole plum tomatoes. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently break them apart. Stir in the oregano, basil, bay leaf, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Allow the sauce to simmer on low for about 15 minutes. Check for seasoning. For a thicker sauce, simmer longer; for a thinner sauce, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Optionally, puree the sauce in a food processor or blender for a smooth texture or keep it chunky, depending on your preference.
- Cool the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.