Indulge in the timeless culinary masterpiece of pasta with marinara sauce. This comforting and versatile dish has been tantalizing taste buds for centuries, promising a delightful blend of juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and savory spices. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, our comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of creating an exceptional pasta with marinara sauce that will leave your family and friends craving more.
Pasta with marinara sauce is a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to sophisticated dinner parties. The rich and vibrant sauce, bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs like basil and oregano, effortlessly elevates any type of pasta. Whether you prefer classic spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, the marinara sauce will seamlessly coat every noodle, delivering a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it is also surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of your time, you can effortlessly recreate the flavors of an authentic Italian trattoria in your own kitchen. So, gather your family and friends, put on some Italian music, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and create lasting memories.
Ingredients and Equipment
- 1 pound (450 grams) of your preferred pasta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can of whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Strainer
- Wooden spoon
How To Make
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-12 minutes, or according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Toss to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Tips or Possible Variations
To enhance the flavor of your marinara sauce, consider roasting the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the skillet. This will concentrate their sweetness and create a deeper, richer flavor.
For a spicier marinara sauce, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
Don’t limit yourself to just tomatoes; feel free to experiment with different vegetables in your marinara sauce. Some popular additions include bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
Don’t be afraid to let the marinara sauce simmer for as long as you can. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it will become. If you have time, let it simmer for several hours, or even overnight, for an exceptionally rich and complex sauce.
Serve your pasta with marinara sauce with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. This classic combination is sure to please everyone at the table.