Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium (110g) yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves (15g) garlic, minced
- 1 cup (130g) carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (120g) zucchini, diced
- 1 cup (100g) cauliflower florets, chopped small
- 1 medium (120g) red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 oz / 794g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp (32g) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp (2g) dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 1 tsp (5ml) honey
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the color.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water (or broth), Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and honey. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer to a high-speed stand blender, and process until the sauce is completely smooth and velvety.