If you're craving a taste of Italy that will transport you straight to the charming streets of Rome, look no further! This "My Marinara Sauce with Pasta" recipe is not just any ordinary dish; it's a celebration of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a rich, aromatic marinara sauce that perfectly complements your favorite pasta. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Dive into this delightful recipe and discover the secret to a mouthwatering meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for a weekend feast!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients: finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out all spices and have your canned tomatoes ready.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
- Pour the entire can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Add dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the herbs and seasonings evenly throughout the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately in individual bowls. Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves for added aroma and flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and mince your garlic ahead of time. This way, you can focus on cooking without interruptions.
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice if you can find them!
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for the full 20-25 minutes. This step is crucial for developing deep, complex flavors.
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to salt your pasta water generously. It should taste like the sea! This is your chance to season the pasta itself.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color. Tear the leaves rather than chopping them to release more of their essential oils.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of red wine for depth.
- Leftover Love: This marinara sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for later use. Perfect for quick meals on busy nights!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg