Mediterranean Diet Classic Minced Meat Sauce

Experience the hearty, rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this Classic Minced Meat Sauce, a delicious and wholesome recipe perfect for adherents of the Mediterranean diet. Crafted with high-quality olive oil, fragrant garlic, and a savory blend of dried oregano and basil, this dish transforms simple ground beef or lamb into a deeply flavorful sauce. A splash of red wine and a simmer in crushed tomatoes make for a luscious combination, while a hint of tomato paste adds richness and depth. Perfectly balanced with a bay leaf's subtle aroma, this sauce is simmered to perfection for an hour, ensuring a thick, hearty texture. Serve this versatile sauce over your favorite pasta or whole grain, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Ideal keywords: Mediterranean diet, minced meat sauce, classic sauce recipe, healthy meat sauce, Mediterranean flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 500 grams ground beef or lamb
• 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 0.5 cup red wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5

Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.

Step 6

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, and tomato paste, mixing everything thoroughly.

Step 7

Season with dried oregano, dried basil, the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.

Step 8

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 9

Cover and let the sauce simmer for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Step 10

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 11

Serve the sauce over your choice of pasta or grain, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1215.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1798.4

Total Fat 129.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 44.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 400mg	0%
Sodium 3271.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 48.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.3g	0%
Total Sugars 26.2g
Protein 93.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 298.1mg	0%
Iron 19.8mg	0%
Potassium 3468.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 67.2%

Protein: 21.7%

Carbs: 11.2%