recipes2 min read
Tomato-Free Pizza Sauce
2026-03-06
#sauce#low-fodmap#anti-inflammatory#vegetarian#vegan#meal-prep
⏱️
Prep Time
10 min
🔥
Cook Time
20 min
🍽️
Servings
6
Nutrition per Serving
25
calories
1g
protein
6g
carbs
0g
fat
* Nutritional values are estimates
Ingredients
- ✓3 medium carrots
- ✓2 small beets
- ✓1 tbsp green onions (green parts only)
- ✓1 red bell pepper
- ✓1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ✓1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ✓1 to 2 cups water
Instructions
- 1Chop all vegetables into roughly equal-sized pieces.
- 2Add chopped vegetables to a medium saucepan.
- 3Add enough water to just cover the vegetables (about 1 to 2 cups).
- 4Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender and easy to pierce with a fork (about 15-20 minutes).
- 5Remove from heat. Do not drain the cooking water—you'll need about 1 cup remaining liquid to create the sauce consistency.
- 6Transfer the cooked vegetables and remaining liquid to a blender.
- 7Pulse blend until mixture is lumpy (not completely smooth).
- 8Add Italian seasoning and salt. Blend briefly to incorporate.
- 9Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 10Use immediately or let cool before storing.
Recipe adapted from: Tracy's Kitchen
Why This Works
This innovative sauce uses naturally sweet vegetables—carrots, beets, and red bell pepper—to create a rich, colorful base that mimics the depth of traditional tomato sauce without nightshades. Perfect for those with acid reflux, GERD, or nightshade sensitivities.
Health Benefits
- Nightshade-free: No tomatoes, perfect for those with sensitivities
- Anti-inflammatory: Beets and carrots contain powerful antioxidants
- Low-FODMAP: Uses green onion tops only, avoiding high-FODMAP bulbs
- Nutrient-dense: Packed with beta-carotene and fiber
- Gut-friendly: Gentle on sensitive digestive systems
Tips for Success
- Don't add too many vegetables: Stick to the suggested amounts to maintain balanced flavor
- Reserve cooking liquid: This adds depth and creates the right sauce consistency
- Lumpy texture is good: Don't over-blend; some texture gives the sauce character
- Taste before adding more seasoning: The vegetables are naturally sweet
- Adjust consistency: If too thick, add a splash of reserved cooking water
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 2 months
- Thaw before using: Transfer to fridge overnight for best results
- Reheat gently: Warm on stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally
Serving Suggestions
- Use as pizza sauce on your favorite low-FODMAP crust
- Thin with broth for a vegetable soup base
- Serve over pasta with grilled chicken
- Use as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or vegetables
- Spread on flatbread for a quick appetizer
Flavor Variations
- Herby: Add fresh basil or oregano during blending
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes (if tolerated)
- Garlic-infused: Use garlic-infused olive oil for added flavor
- Sweet: Add 1 tsp maple syrup to balance acidity
- Umami boost: Add 1 tsp nutritional yeast for depth