Oh, the joy of cooking pasta! There’s something so wonderfully comforting about it, don’t you think? It’s like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s so simple and absolutely delicious—perfect for beginners who might be a bit intimidated in the kitchen. Trust me, once you get the hang of this, you’ll want to make it again and again! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can dress it up or keep it casual, depending on your mood. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’ll have you feeling like a pro in no time!

Ingredients List

• 200g pasta (any shape you love—spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work great!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for that lovely richness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds so much flavor!)
• 400g canned tomatoes (crushed or diced, whatever you have on hand)
• Salt to taste (don’t be shy, but start with a little!)
• Black pepper to taste (freshly cracked is the best!)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional, but so fragrant and pretty!)

How to Prepare Instructions

Boil the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta boiling! Fill a large pot with water—enough so that the pasta can swim around happily without getting cramped. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once it’s bubbling away, add a generous pinch of salt; this is where the pasta starts to absorb flavor! Now, toss in your 200g of pasta and give it a gentle stir. This little stir helps prevent sticking, which is key for perfectly cooked pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes for most shapes. You want it al dente, so it has a little bite to it! Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally. Trust me, nothing is worse than clumpy pasta!

Prepare the Sauce

While your pasta is happily boiling, let’s whip up that sauce! In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Ooh, the smell is divine! Then, pour in those 400g of canned tomatoes. You can use crushed or diced—whatever you’ve got in your pantry will work. Stir everything together, and then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to meld and really shine. It’s a simple step, but it makes such a difference!

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now comes the fun part! Once your pasta is cooked to perfection, carefully drain it in a colander. Don’t rinse it, though—those little starches help the sauce cling. Add the drained pasta directly into your pan with the sauce. Give it a good toss to coat every lovely strand with that rich tomato goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, you can always splash in a bit of the pasta water to loosen it up; it’s like magic! Cook it all together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend even more. And voila! You’ve got a delicious pasta dish ready to serve! Don’t forget to plate it up and top it with those fresh basil leaves for that extra touch of flavor and presentation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple and quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Only a handful of ingredients, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
• Great for beginners—no fancy techniques required!
• Deliciously flavorful, thanks to fresh garlic and ripe tomatoes.
• Customizable—add your favorite veggies, proteins, or spices for a personal touch.
• Ready in just 25 minutes, so you can enjoy a home-cooked meal in no time.
• Comforting and satisfying, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure you nail this pasta dish! Here are my tried-and-true tips to help you achieve pasta perfection:

• Season your water: Don’t skip the salt when boiling your pasta! It’s your first chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself. Aim for a big pinch—think like the sea, not a sprinkle!
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic makes a world of difference, so if you can, go for it! And if you have fresh tomatoes, definitely use those instead of canned for an even brighter taste.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep a close eye on your pasta while it cooks. Al dente is the goal! It should have a slight bite to it when you taste it—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! If your sauce needs a little more oomph, add a pinch of salt or pepper. You can also sprinkle in some dried herbs like oregano or red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Save some pasta water: Before you drain the pasta, ladle out a cup of that starchy cooking water. It’s a handy trick for adjusting the sauce’s consistency if it turns out too thick.
• Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil! It adds a lovely aroma and a pop of color that makes your dish look as good as it tastes.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious pasta dish that’ll impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this pasta recipe is how adaptable it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Veggie Delight: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach while the sauce simmers. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to your dish!
• Protein Power: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Just toss them in with the sauce to heat through before mixing with the pasta.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce. It’ll give your dish a nice spicy twist!
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme. Just chop them up and stir them in at the end for a burst of flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Add a handful of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese to the pasta right after combining it with the sauce. Let it melt slightly for that gooey, cheesy effect!
• Italian Twist: Make it a bit more traditional by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of Italian seasoning to your sauce for extra depth of flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Each variation makes this simple pasta recipe uniquely yours, and I can’t wait for you to try them out. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious pasta dish and have some leftovers? Lucky you! Storing your pasta properly will keep it tasting just as good for your next meal. Here’s how I do it:

• Cool it down: Let your pasta cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting mushy.
• Use airtight containers: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn if you plan to freeze it.
• Refrigerate or freeze: If you’re eating the leftovers within a few days, store them in the refrigerator where they’ll keep well for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it and enjoy it within 2-3 months for the best flavor.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple:

• Stovetop method: This is my favorite way! Just add the pasta to a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or extra olive oil. Stir it often and heat until warmed through. This method helps to revive the flavors and prevent it from drying out.
• Microwave method: If you’re short on time, pop the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts (about 1 minute at a time), stirring in between until heated through. Just be careful not to overcook it!

And there you have it! Proper storage and reheating techniques will ensure that your delicious pasta keeps its flavor and texture, making your next meal just as delightful as the first. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the typical nutritional breakdown for this delightful pasta dish. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 12g

With this simple pasta recipe, you’re not just treating your taste buds but also fueling your body with good, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy every bite while knowing you’re making a deliciously nutritious choice!

FAQ Section

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary from regular pasta.

What if I don’t have canned tomatoes?
No problem! You can use fresh tomatoes instead. Just chop them up and cook them down with the garlic until they break down into a sauce. It’ll be just as delicious!

Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Yes, definitely! Grated Parmesan or even mozzarella stirred in at the end of cooking will add a wonderful creaminess and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to melt the cheese properly.

How do I make this pasta dish spicy?
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while you’re sautéing the garlic, or toss in some diced jalapeños with the canned tomatoes. You can control the spice level to your liking!

What’s the best way to serve this pasta?
I love serving it hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!

For more information on the health benefits of tomatoes, check out this Healthline article.

For tips on cooking pasta perfectly, you can refer to this Serious Eats guide.

Recipes Pasta Made Easy: 5 Simple Steps for Beginners

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A simple and delicious pasta recipe for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400g canned tomatoes
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Pour in canned tomatoes and stir.
6. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Simmer sauce for 10 minutes.
8. Drain pasta and add it to the sauce.
9. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
10. Serve hot, garnished with basil leaves.

Notes

• Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Use fresh tomatoes if available for a fresher taste.
• Adjust seasoning according to your preference.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boiling and Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: recipes pasta