Perfect Pasta with Tomato and Basil

This recipe for Perfect Pasta with Tomato and Basil is sure to become a favorite in your household! It’s simple yet delicious, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family lunches.

The key to this dish lies not just in the ingredients but also in the technique. The pasta needs to be al dente – firm enough to have a slight bite and tender enough to enjoy with every bite. The sauce should be creamy and flavorful, complemented by fresh basil that adds an aromatic burst of freshness.

Cooking time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, and it serves four people comfortably. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this dish in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 400g dried pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 350ml canned peeled tomatoes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions:

Cooking the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen type and amount of pasta. Stir gently to prevent it from sticking together. Follow the package instructions regarding cooking time; however, aim for al dente texture. When done, drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.

Preparing the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium heat in another pan. Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even browning without burning the onions.

Add minced garlic towards the end of onion cooking; sauté just long enough for it to release its aroma but not turn golden brown or lose flavor.

When the pasta is ready, mix well with the cooked onions and garlic. Add canned tomatoes (preferably whole ones for better texture) along with oregano, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Bring this mixture back to a simmer and cook until everything comes together nicely—about 5-7 minutes.

Final Touch: Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency (you may need more tomato depending on preference), mix in your drained pasta. Toss gently to coat thoroughly with the sauce. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil over each serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately, garnished with additional freshly ground black pepper if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or simply breadsticks on the table. For something more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken breast or shrimp alongside this pasta.

Tips for Success:

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Freshness and quality significantly impact taste. Use high-quality tomatoes whenever possible; canned ones are fine too but choose those with minimal added sugar or preservatives if you can.
2. Serve Hot: Warmth enhances flavors, so ideally serve this dish as soon as it's ready. If serving later, keep it warm without overcooking further to maintain texture integrity.
3. Vary Your Pasta: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta—try whole wheat varieties for a healthier option or use shapes that better hold onto the sauce like spirals (cavatappi) or shells (campanelle).

The Perfect Pasta with Tomato and Basil isn't just about following recipes; it's about creating memorable meals that everyone enjoys. Whether you're hosting friends for dinner, having a casual night in, or simply looking to satisfy your craving for something comforting yet hearty, this pasta dish delivers every time.