Italian Tomato Soffritto 

Total time: 30 mins, Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 large zucchini, diced
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: splash of vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced bell pepper and zucchini. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender.
4. Add the diced tomato along with the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and reaches a soft, scoopable texture.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. For a fresh, tangy finish, add a splash of vinegar just before serving (optional).

SOFRRITTO

Soffritto is a traditional Italian flavor base made by gently sautéing finely chopped vegetables—typically onion, celery, and carrot—in olive oil. It forms the aromatic foundation for many soups, sauces, stews, and other savory dishes. Slowly cooking the vegetables allows their natural sweetness and depth to develop, adding a rich, savory backbone to the entire dish. Soffritto is similar to the French mirepoix or the Spanish sofrito, with each culture adding its own twist.