Our Classic Vegan Tomato Sauce Recipe For Pasta And Pizza

A classic vegan tomato sauce is one of those must-have recipes that belongs in every plant-based kitchen. 

It’s simple, rich in flavor, and can be used in so many ways, including on pasta, pizza, lasagna, or as a base for soups and stews. 

This version is made with pantry staples and comes together in under 30 minutes.

This sauce brings comfort and flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for both quick weeknight meals and easy batch-cooking for the freezer.

Why This Vegan Tomato Sauce Recipe Works

Homemade vegan tomato sauce beats store-bought every time. It’s free from added sugar, packed with real ingredients, and easy to adjust to your taste. Here’s what makes it a favorite:

• Made with whole, plant-based ingredients
• No added sugar or preservatives
• Full-bodied flavor thanks to garlic, herbs, and simmering
• Quick enough for weeknight meals, delicious enough for guests
• Incredibly versatile and delicious on pasta, pizza, or grain bowls.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegan Tomato Sauce

Gather these ingredients for a flavorful, simple sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, helps balance acidity)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Vegan Tomato Sauce

Follow these steps for a delicious and versatile tomato sauce:

1. Sauté the aromatics
   In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
   
2. Add herbs and spices
   Mix in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Let them toast for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
   
3. Stir in tomatoes and tomato paste
   Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste until fully combined.
   
4. Simmer
   Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps thicken the sauce and deepen the flavor.
   
5. Season and finish
   Taste and season with salt, pepper, and maple syrup if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it.
   
6. Blend (optional)
   For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender once slightly cooled.

Smart Ways to Use This Vegan Tomato Sauce

This classic tomato sauce pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few easy ways to enjoy it:

• Toss with your favorite cooked pasta and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
• Spread on homemade pizza dough for a quick dinner
• Use in lasagna or baked pasta casseroles
• Serve over roasted vegetables or grain bowls
• Use as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or baked tofu

Flavor Twists to Try

If you want to change it up, here are some easy ways to adjust the flavor of your vegan tomato sauce:

• Roasted garlic: Swap fresh garlic for roasted for a sweeter, mellow flavor
• Smoky depth: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce
• Herb boost: Use fresh basil, oregano, or thyme instead of dried
• Veggie-loaded: Stir in chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers while sautéing the onion

Storing Your Vegan Tomato Sauce

This tomato sauce is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and holds its flavor over time. 

Once the sauce has completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. 

If you’d like to make a larger batch or save some for later, it also freezes beautifully. 

Simply portion it into jars or freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. 

When you’re ready to use it, let the sauce thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

This classic vegan tomato sauce is one of those go-to recipes that never disappoints. Once you try it homemade, it’s hard to go back to jarred versions. 

It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly flexible, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. 

With just a few everyday ingredients and a little simmer time, you’ve got a sauce that brings warmth and flavor to any meal.

Our Classic Vegan Tomato Sauce Recipe For Pasta And Pizza

Recipe by Jess Miller

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

• 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, helps balance acidity)

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Sauté the aromatics
• Add herbs and spices
• Stir in tomatoes and tomato paste
• Simmer
• Season and finish
• Blend (optional)