Tomato-based pasta sauce

Tomato-based pasta sauce is a vibrant, savory sauce primarily made from ripe tomatoes, often sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic, and seasoned with herbs such as basil and oregano. It originates from Italy, where it forms the foundation of countless regional pasta dishes, from simple marinara to hearty bolognese. The sauce is celebrated for its bright acidity and ability to complement a wide variety of pasta shapes.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

A typical serving is relatively low in fat and protein but provides a good source of carbohydrates from the tomatoes and any added sugar. It is rich in vitamins like vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to various health benefits, with a calorie count that can range from about 80 to 150 calories per half-cup serving depending on added oils and ingredients.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	70 kcal
Protein	1.5 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	2 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	7 g
Sodium	480 mg
Vitamin A	25% DV
Vitamin C	15% DV
Vitamin K	10% DV
Potassium	350 mg
Iron	4% DV
Manganese	8% DV
Folate	6% DV
Vitamin B6	5% DV

Per 1/2 cup (125 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, this sauce is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine and has become a global pantry staple, symbolizing comfort food across many cultures. Nutritionally, cooking tomatoes significantly increases the bioavailability of lycopene, making the sauce a more potent source of this antioxidant than raw tomatoes.