Tired of takeout and craving a comforting, delicious meal that won't take all night to prepare? Then look no further! This simple pasta marinara recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a classic for a reason – bursting with fresh tomato flavor and incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant, all without the hassle! This healthy meal is a great example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 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 little heat)
- Salt and 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 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large 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, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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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 is 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.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pasta Marinara:
- Don't burn the garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while it's sautéing. Low and slow is key to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
- Simmer for flavor: The longer the sauce simmers, the richer the flavor will become. If time allows, simmering for 30 minutes or even an hour will result in a more complex and delicious sauce.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: If you have fresh basil and oregano on hand, use them! The flavor will be significantly brighter and more intense than dried herbs.
Variations:
- Meat Lovers Marinara: Brown some ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs and add them to the sauce during the simmering stage.
- Vegetarian Marinara: Add a handful of chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce along with the garlic.
- Creamy Tomato Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This simple pasta marinara recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that anyone can master. Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful meal anytime! It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or even a romantic date night. It truly is one of the best recipes for its ease and deliciousness.