Iconic Perfect easy tomato pasta Everyday Favorite
This easy tomato pasta is a classic, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Bursting with fresh tomato flavor and aromatic herbs, it’s simple, quick, and endlessly satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
· 400g (14 oz) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
· 1 medium onion, finely chopped
· 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
· 2 teaspoons tomato paste
· 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano
· 1 teaspoon dried basil or 5 fresh basil leaves, chopped
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
· 50g (½ cup) grated Parmesan or plant-based alternative
· Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 15-20 minutes.
4. Toss drained pasta in sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Stir in Parmesan, garnish with fresh basil, and serve.
Notes
· Use high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
· Adjust herbs to your taste.
· Sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days.
· Add reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.