Mix vegetables and pancetta in tomato sauce

Delicious dish with vegetables and pancetta in tomato sauce

If you are looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe, you have come to the right place! This dish with vegetables and pancetta in tomato sauce is a perfect choice for a delicious family dinner or a meal with friends. Using simple and easily found ingredients, this recipe combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the savory taste of pancetta.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper (you can choose between red, yellow, or green, depending on your preference)
- 200 g pancetta
- 200 g cooked chickpeas (an excellent choice for protein)
- 200 g cooked beans (you can use both white and red beans)
- 250 ml tomato juice (opt for a quality tomato juice, preferably without additives)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of finely chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the carrots. Wash them well under cold water and cut them in half lengthwise, then into rounds. This method will help with even cooking. Peel, wash, and finely chop the onion. Wash the bell pepper, remove the stem and seeds, and then cut it into suitable cubes.

2. Frying the pancetta: In a deep skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the pancetta cut into cubes and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes crispy and releases its aroma.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the pancetta is ready, add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them together for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and let it cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Including the beans and chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas and beans to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, gently stirring to combine the flavors. It is important to use cooked chickpeas and beans, so the dish will be ready in a timely manner.

5. The tomato sauce: Pour the tomato juice over the vegetables and mix well. If the juice is too sour, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the taste. Add a glass of water (about 200 ml) and let it simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce reduces to the desired consistency.

6. Finalizing the dish: When the sauce has reached the right consistency, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley, along with a final dash of freshly ground pepper.

Practical tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for better taste. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, depending on your preferences.
- Variations: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the pancetta with smoked tofu or mushrooms. These will add an interesting texture and distinct flavor.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a side of basmati rice or fresh bread. You can also add a green salad for an extra freshness.
- Recommended drinks: A pale beer or a dry white wine pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of this dish.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is rich in protein from chickpeas and beans, providing an excellent source of nutrients. Carrots are full of beta-carotene, and parsley adds vitamin C and antioxidants. Pancetta, although fattier, provides an intense and savory flavor, contributing to a balanced meal. Calories may vary depending on portions and cooking methods, but it is a healthy option for a hearty dinner.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and dry them well before adding them to the skillet to avoid excess water.

2. How long can I keep the dish?
You can store the dish in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Can I add extra spices?
Of course! Herbs like basil or oregano go very well with the tomato sauce and will enhance the flavors.

I wish you happy cooking and enjoy your meal! This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will surely become a favorite dish in your family.

 Ingredients: 2 carrots, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 200 g pancetta, 200 g boiled chickpeas, 200 g boiled beans, 250 ml tomato juice, parsley, oil, sugar, salt, pepper

 Tags:  mix of vegetables and pancetta in tomato sauce mix vegetables pancetta sauce tomatoes vegetable dishes