Pasta in Red Sauce Recipe

Pasta in red sauce is a comforting and delicious dish that is a staple in many households. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and can be customized with various vegetables, proteins, or seasonings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Let’s walk you through how to prepare a hearty plate of pasta in red sauce that will leave you craving for more!

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 250g pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or your preferred choice)
• Water (for boiling)
• Salt (for seasoning the water)

For the Red Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, blended)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
• 1 tbsp sugar (to balance the acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta).
3. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
4. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Save a small cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Make the Red Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or blended fresh tomatoes), and stir to combine.
5. Add oregano, basil (if using), chili flakes, and sugar. Stir well.
6. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and reduce slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
8. For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste and stir well.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Once the red sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta into the pan. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well-coated. If the sauce seems too dry, add a little more reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta.
2. Cook the pasta in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the pasta in red sauce on individual plates.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
3. Enjoy your delicious homemade pasta in red sauce!

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for a wholesome, veggie-packed meal.
• Protein Add-ins: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even meatballs to the pasta for extra protein.
• Spice Level: Adjust the level of chili flakes depending on how spicy you like your dish. You can even skip them entirely if you prefer a milder sauce.
• Fresh Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh tomatoes, simply blend them and cook them down to create your own sauce. It takes a bit longer, but the fresh flavor is worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, this dish can be modified to suit your preferences.
• Comforting and Flavorful: The rich, tangy, and herby red sauce paired with perfectly cooked pasta creates a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Enjoy your delicious pasta in red sauce!