Tomato-based pasta sauce base

Tomato-based pasta sauce base recipe videos

A tomato-based pasta sauce base is a foundational Italian preparation, typically featuring ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs like basil or oregano, simmered to create a rich, versatile sauce. It serves as the starting point for countless pasta dishes, from simple marinara to complex meat sauces, and is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This sauce is generally low in fat and protein but can be moderate in carbohydrates from the tomatoes and any added sugars. It provides key nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, with a typical serving (about ½ cup) containing roughly 40-70 calories, depending on oil and sugar content.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	110 kcal
Protein	3 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	3.5 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	10 g
Sodium	800 mg
Vitamin A	2500 IU
Vitamin C	30 mg
Vitamin K	15 mcg
Potassium	700 mg
Manganese	0.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg
Folate	35 mcg
Iron	2.0 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, this sauce represents the heart of Italian home cooking, where simplicity and quality ingredients shine. Nutritionally, the cooking process actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, making it a healthful choice when prepared with minimal added fats.