In the realm of culinary delights, nothing beats the comfort and convenience of a steaming plate of pasta bathed in a rich red sauce. With our easy-to-follow guide, you’ll discover how to whip up a quick red sauce pasta that tantalizes your taste buds without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary repertoire.
The beauty of this quick red sauce pasta recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in a flash. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for seconds.
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s assemble the essential ingredients and equipment you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pasta (any shape you like)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Sauce pan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How To Make:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine.
8. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips and Variations:
1. For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking.
2. If you don’t have tomato paste, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of ketchup.
3. Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Some popular choices include spaghetti, penne, and rigatoni.
This quick red sauce pasta recipe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a classic pairing, or add grilled chicken or vegetables for a more substantial meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can have a delicious pasta dinner on hand whenever you need it.
So, next time you crave a comforting and satisfying meal, give this quick red sauce pasta recipe a try. Its simplicity and flavor will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire, leaving you craving for more.