Perfect Pasta with Tomatoes

One of the simplest yet most delicious pasta dishes is the classic Pasta with Tomatoes. This recipe promises to be a delightful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by people who love simple yet flavorful dishes.

Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients for Pasta with Tomatoes

• 200 grams of pasta (any type of your choice, such as spaghetti)
• 4 ripe tomatoes
• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the salt and pasta into the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

In the meantime, prepare the tomato sauce by chopping the tomatoes, onions, and garlic finely. Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.

When the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta, mix well to ensure each piece of pasta is coated evenly with the flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Health Benefits

Pasta dishes like this one are excellent for those looking for a hearty yet healthy meal option. Tomatoes, which play a starring role in this recipe, are rich in vitamins and antioxidants such as vitamin C and lycopene, both of which have been linked to heart health and cancer prevention.

• Vitamin C: Helps boost the immune system and promotes collagen production for skin elasticity.
• Lycopene: Known for its role in reducing inflammation and protecting against cardiovascular disease.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This pasta dish is relatively low in fat but rich in carbohydrates. Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving, based on 4 servings:

1. Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
2. Fat: Around 12g (primarily from olive oil)
3. Carbohydrates: About 65g
4. Fiber: Approximately 8g
5. Protein: Roughly 14g

Variations and Substitutions

This base recipe can be easily modified to suit individual tastes. For those who prefer a more robust flavor, add some red pepper flakes or crushed red chilies for a bit of heat.

• Chicken Pasta: Add cooked chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken into the pasta and sauce mixture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the olive oil with vegan butter or extra virgin coconut oil, ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.

Tips for a Successful Pasta Dish

To make sure your pasta dish is perfectly al dente and the sauce is rich in flavor, follow these tips:

1. Boil the pasta until it’s slightly firm to bite.
2. Ensure you have enough olive oil while sautéing vegetables as they can stick easily when dry.
3. Add a bit of pasta water when mixing with sauce to create a rich and creamy texture.

Pasta with tomatoes is not just about the taste, but it’s also about the experience. Enjoy this meal not only for its delicious flavor but also for the satisfaction that comes from creating a simple yet exquisite dish at home. Whether you are a beginner in cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe will provide you with a rewarding outcome.

Conclusion

The classic Pasta with Tomatoes is a versatile and comforting meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s easy to prepare, has great health benefits, and can be adapted to different tastes and dietary preferences. With the right ingredients and some time spent in the kitchen, you too can create this wonderful dish and enjoy its rich flavors.