Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This pasta with marinara sauce recipe is a classic for a reason: it's simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that tastes better than takeout, without the hefty price tag or long wait times. This recipe provides a simple guide to making a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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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 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan 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 saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. This is a great time to multitask and focus on other elements of your meal preparation.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Pasta with Marinara Sauce:
- Use good quality tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce depends heavily on the quality of your tomatoes. Look for crushed tomatoes with minimal added ingredients.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to customize your sauce to your liking. Thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of sugar can all add interesting depth of flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs accordingly.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor of your dish by adding vegetables like onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce while it simmers.
- Meat lovers' marinara: Brown some ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs before adding the tomatoes for a heartier meal.
- Creamy marinara: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size used. However, a typical serving of pasta with marinara sauce provides a good source of carbohydrates and some protein. Adding vegetables and lean meats can further enhance the nutritional value. For a precise nutritional analysis, use an online nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. This recipe makes for a delicious and healthy meal option.
This easy pasta with marinara sauce recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both delicious and quick to prepare. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences, making it a staple in your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!