Irresistible Pasta with Sauce Recipe: A Culinary Classic

Pasta is one of the most beloved dishes around the globe, and for good reason! It’s versatile, comforting, and most importantly, it’s really simple to make. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a culinary enthusiast, mastering the art of pasta with sauce is an essential skill. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a delicious and foolproof pasta with sauce recipe that you can whip up for a weeknight dinner or serve at a cozy gathering. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300g (about 10.5 oz) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.)
• Salt (for the pasta water)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes (or you can use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season)
• 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or a handful of fresh basil, chopped)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnishing)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup of vegetables (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach)
• Protein (like grilled chicken, shrimp, or meatballs)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. The general rule is to add about a tablespoon of salt for every 4-5 quarts of water.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-12 minutes, depending on the type). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Just before draining the pasta, reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water. This will help to adjust the sauce consistency later.
4. Drain Pasta: Drain the pasta in a colander, but do not rinse it! Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!
2. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you’ll want to chop them finely before adding.
3. Season the Sauce: Add the sugar, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil (or fresh, if using). If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Incorporate Vegetables or Protein (optional): If you’re adding any vegetables or protein, toss them in during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to allow them to heat through and integrate with the sauce.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Once your sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, add the cooked pasta to the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
2. Toss to Coat: Gently toss the pasta and sauce together, allowing every strand to be coated in delicious sauce.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Plating: Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates.
2. Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Garnish: Finish with a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Dig into your homemade pasta with sauce! Pair it with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Dish

• Choosing the Right Pasta: Different sauces go well with different types of pasta. For example, thicker sauces can be paired with penne or rigatoni, while lighter sauces are perfect for spaghetti or angel hair.
• Cooking Time: Always check your pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time—this way, you can gauge if it’s truly al dente.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they sit!

Pasta with sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting Italian classic that brings people together. With this simple recipe and a few variations, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and celebrate the joy of cooking. Buon appetito!

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience or your own pasta creations in the comments below!