Simple Italian Pasta with Homemade Marinara Sauce

Looking for a quick yet delicious pasta dish that will impress your family or friends? Look no further than homemade Italian pasta with marinara sauce. This classic recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this pasta dish comes together in less than 30 minutes and serves four people.

The key to this dish's success lies in the quality of ingredients used. Fresh tomatoes are essential for a rich tomato-based sauce, while fresh basil adds a burst of freshness that enhances every bite. You'll also need garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper which are staples in any Italian kitchen. For those looking to add some heat, you can sprinkle a bit of red pepper flakes into the marinara.

To start your delicious homemade pasta dish, boil four quarts of water with salt until it reaches a rolling boil. While waiting for the water to come to a boil, prepare your marinara sauce. In a medium-sized pot, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and add three cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned.

Next, add two cups of chopped tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother texture for your pasta sauce, you can blend some or all of the tomatoes before adding them to the pot. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes while stirring occasionally. During this time, season it with salt and pepper according to taste.

Once the water has boiled, add one pound of spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape. Follow package instructions regarding cooking times but generally expect between eight and ten minutes depending on the type of pasta you chose. When done, strain the noodles and toss them in a bowl with two tablespoons more olive oil to prevent sticking.

Transfer the hot pasta into a serving dish. Pour over half of your prepared marinara sauce, leaving some for garnish if desired. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and additional red pepper flakes as per personal preference. Serve immediately so that everyone can enjoy their meal while it's still warm.

For those interested in adding more variety to their pasta dishes, here are a few tips:

• Add protein: Top your pasta with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra flavor and substance.
• Vary the vegetables: Include zucchini slices, sautéed bell peppers, or even some spinach leaves for added color and nutrition.
• Use different types of pasta: Experiment with various shapes like spirals (ziti), bow ties (farfalle), or fusilli to change up the texture experience.

The simplicity of this dish makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. It's a versatile recipe that can be modified based on dietary preferences, such as omitting red pepper flakes for those who prefer milder flavors, using gluten-free pasta, or even incorporating pesto instead of marinara sauce.

Homemade Italian pasta with marinara sauce is more than just another quick meal; it's a celebration of traditional Italian cuisine. By making your own marinara sauce from scratch, you take control over the freshness and quality of ingredients used in your dish. This simple yet satisfying recipe ensures that every bite brings delightful tastes to the table.

With just basic equipment—such as a large pot for boiling water, a skillet for sautéing garlic, and a serving bowl—you can create this comforting meal any time you want. Whether you're having dinner at home with loved ones or hosting guests over, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit.

Preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, including cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce. The total preparation time does not include cooling down after boiling the water since that step can be done ahead of time if preferred.

This classic Italian dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends and family. Its straightforward ingredients ensure that even first-time cooks will feel confident attempting this recipe. Once mastered, you might find yourself creating variations on this base to suit different tastes and occasions.