Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious pasta sauce recipe that's also healthy? Look no further! This Rosatella pasta sauce is your answer. It's a vibrant, flavorful sauce that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Forget those jarred sauces – homemade is where it's at, and this recipe proves it's easier than you think. This easy recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
- 1 pound pasta of your choice (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking 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, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring the mixture 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 becomes. This is a great time to multitask and focus on other parts of your meal prep!
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Combine and serve: Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the saucepan with the 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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Garnish and enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil (if using).
Tips and Variations:
- For a smoother sauce: Blend the sauce with an immersion blender before adding the pasta.
- Add some veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds another dimension of heat.
- Boost the flavor: A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or cream cheese at the end for a creamier sauce.
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked Italian sausage, meatballs, or ground beef for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving of pasta with approximately 1 cup of sauce, and will vary depending on the type of pasta and added ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Rosatella pasta sauce recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a perfect choice for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. This recipe is perfect for those seeking delicious dishes and best recipes, offering a fantastic homemade cooking experience. Enjoy!