Perfect Pasta with Simple Sauce

One of the most beloved dishes in Italian cuisine is pasta; it's versatile, quick to prepare, and offers a wide variety of flavors depending on the sauce used. This article will guide you through an easy yet delicious recipe for Pasta with Simple Tomato Sauce. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this dish can be enjoyed by all ages and is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to indulge in some home-cooked goodness. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

1 lb (500g) of pasta, such as spaghetti or fusilli
6 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz/794g) of crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Begin by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches al dente.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly, reserving about half a cup (120ml) of the pasta water for later use. This will help create a smooth sauce when added to your skillet.
In a large skillet or pot, heat up two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as this can make the dish bitter.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, along with salt and pepper for seasoning. Simmer on low heat while you prepare your pasta. If you like a thicker sauce, you may need to cook it longer; otherwise, it should be slightly runny like most traditional pasta sauces.
Mix the cooked pasta into the tomato sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add more salt or pepper if desired.
At this point, you may want to incorporate some of the reserved pasta water into the dish for extra creaminess and flavor. Stir in gently so that the pasta absorbs just enough moisture but maintains its texture.
If using optional garnishes like fresh basil or Parmesan cheese, sprinkle them over the top before serving.

Enjoy!

This dish is incredibly flexible and can be modified based on personal preferences. For instance, you could substitute the crushed tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a more concentrated flavor. Adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking would also enhance nutritional value without significantly altering preparation time.

Conclusion:

Pasta with Simple Tomato Sauce is not only simple to prepare but also highly customizable according to individual tastes and dietary needs. It serves well both as a side dish and a main course. With minimal effort, this meal can become the highlight of any dinner party or family gathering.

Tips for Success:

Ensure that your pasta is cooked al dente; this prevents it from becoming soggy when combined with sauce later on.
Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh produce and extra-virgin olive oil will make all the difference in taste and quality.
Don't rush the simmering process of the tomato sauce. Allowing it to cook slowly ensures a richer flavor profile.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into making one of Italy's most iconic dishes at home. Happy cooking!