Indulge in the rich flavors of homemade tomato pasta, a timeless classic that brings comfort to any table. With its vibrant tomato sauce and al dente pasta, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this tomato pasta recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to savor every bite of this delightful meal that captures the essence of Italian cuisine!
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 400g canned tomatoes (crushed or whole)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 plate):
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the canned tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the tomato sauce.
- Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta. Additionally, fresh tomatoes can replace canned ones if in season, and you can experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Tomato pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the sauce adequately can result in bland flavors.
- Skipping the simmering step may leave the sauce too watery.
- Using low-quality canned tomatoes can affect the overall taste.
- Not reserving pasta water may limit sauce consistency options.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for added depth.
- Let the sauce simmer longer for a richer taste.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Just peel and chop them, and simmer until they break down to form a sauce.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just ensure that any additional toppings, like cheese, are vegetarian-friendly.
What type of pasta works best for tomato pasta?
Spaghetti is traditional, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta just before serving for best results.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili to the sauce while it simmers for extra heat.
Conclusion
Tomato pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this delightful recipe and make it your own with variations and additions!
Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 400 g canned tomatoes crushed or whole
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Parmesan cheese grated (optional)
- Red pepper flakes optional for spice
- 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the canned tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the tomato sauce.
- Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
