Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This fresh tomato pasta recipe takes inspiration from the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, offering a vibrant and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is all about simple ingredients and bursting fresh flavors, making it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
This simple recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making homemade cooking a breeze.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite shape)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and best recipes that are both tasty and time-efficient.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture and taste. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package directions indicate.
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish heavily relies on fresh tomatoes and herbs. Splurge a little on high-quality ingredients for an even more delicious result.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to suit your preferences.
- Add other vegetables: For a heartier meal, add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce.
Variations:
- Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Use fresh herbs: Substitute fresh oregano and basil for the dried versions for an even more intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 10-15g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This simple yet satisfying fresh tomato pasta recipe is a great example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this easy, healthy, and flavorful meal any day of the week! It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking and is sure to become a family favorite.