The Vegetable Marinara

I love pasta, and it's one of those few foods where there's a 90% chance my kids will eat it.  So we eat it semi-often.  Over the years my husband and I have tried many different store bought varieties and found them all lacking.  Then my mother-in-law gave us thissalt and pepper recipe.  It was delicious!  But the only vegetable was a can of crushed tomatoes, and I was wanting more.  So here's what I did:

• 3-4 tbs olive oil (I use coconut)
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 2-3 cloves of minced garlic

saute all of the above and then add

• 48 oz can of crushed tomatoes (I use 2 28 oz cans)
• a good shake of crushed red peppers
• 1 tsp dried oregano (I use 2)
• salt and pepper to taste

and let simmer for about 30-45 minutes.  Stir regularly.

I've added different vegetables and done a lot of trial and error with this recipe, but my favorite additions are:

• 1 medium yellow squash
• 1 stalk green onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 tsp dried parsley (added with oregano)

all chopped ridiculously thin and added at the beginning with the onion and garlic.

And for even better news, it's one of those meals that I can make the sauce the night before, put in the fridge, and just heat up when it's time to eat.  We always have enough for at least 2 nights.

Ground beef or sausage can also be added to this if you're looking for some extra protein.  Just cook separately and add while the sauce is simmering.

And have you ever tried these noodles? 

 They're amazing.  Even my kids like them.  We call them magic noodles and they totally bought it.