Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m so excited to share this easy recipe for a simple yet delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for beginners. Cooking can feel a bit overwhelming at times, but trust me, it doesn’t have to be! This recipe is all about keeping things straightforward and stress-free, allowing you to whip up a delightful meal without any fuss. I remember when I first started cooking; I was always on the lookout for dishes that didn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. This pasta dish is just that! With only a handful of ingredients and a few quick steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm, comforting meal in no time. Let’s dive into the world of easy cooking together!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious pasta dish. I promise it’s super simple, and you might even have some of these ingredients in your kitchen already!

• 200g pasta: Any type you love! I often use spaghetti or penne, but feel free to pick your favorite.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a lovely richness to the sauce. Extra virgin is my go-to for the best flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the dish a warm aroma and a delightful taste. If you love garlic, don’t hold back!
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes: This is the base of our sauce. Look for whole or diced tomatoes without added sugars or preservatives.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: A classic herb that complements the tomatoes perfectly. If you have fresh basil, even better—just chop it up!
• Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Just remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
• Pepper to taste: A pinch of pepper adds a nice kick. Adjust it to your liking!
• Parmesan cheese for serving: Grated Parmesan on top is a must! It adds a creamy, salty finish that really elevates the dish.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious pasta dish on the table in no time.

Boil the Pasta

First, fill a large pot with water and place it on the stove over high heat. You want to bring it to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling, add a generous pinch of salt—this will flavor the pasta as it cooks. Now, toss in your 200g of pasta and give it a gentle stir. Be sure to check the package for cooking times; we want the pasta to be perfectly al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Set a timer so you don’t forget!

Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, let’s make the sauce! In a separate pan, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn, though! Now, pour in the can of diced tomatoes, along with 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Remember to season with salt and pepper to taste!

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time to combine! Carefully drain the pasta in a colander, making sure to shake off any excess water. Then, add it directly to the sauce in the pan. Toss everything together gently, so the pasta is well coated in that flavorful tomato sauce. This is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s all mixed up nicely!

Serve and Enjoy

Now for the best part—serving it up! Grab your favorite bowls and ladle in the pasta. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra creamy goodness. Feel free to add any additional toppings you love, like fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Enjoy your delicious, homemade pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s super quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
• Perfect for beginners—no complicated techniques, just straightforward steps.
• Deliciously flavorful with simple ingredients you can find in any kitchen.
• Versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs!
• Healthy and vegetarian, making it a great option for everyone.
• Budget-friendly—using pantry staples means you won’t break the bank!
• Great for meal prep—make a double batch for easy lunches during the week.

Tips for Success

Before you dive into cooking, here are some handy tips to help you nail this recipe and avoid common pitfalls. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make your kitchen experience so much smoother!

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is your best friend! Keep an eye on the timer and taste a piece a minute or two before the package suggests. If it’s too soft, it won’t hold up in the sauce.
• Season your water: Always add a generous pinch of salt to your boiling water. This is the first chance to flavor your pasta, and it makes a world of difference!
• Use fresh garlic: If you can, opt for fresh garlic over pre-minced. It’s so much more aromatic and flavorful! Just be careful not to let it brown in the pan; that can make it taste bitter.
• Taste as you go: Don’t be shy about tasting your sauce while it simmers! This is the time to adjust the seasoning. If it needs a little more salt or a dash of pepper, go for it!
• Mix well: When combining the pasta and sauce, really toss them together! This ensures every noodle is coated in that delicious tomato goodness. No one likes a dry pasta dish!
• Let leftovers cool: If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool before storing them in the fridge. This helps prevent excess moisture, keeping your pasta fresher for longer.

With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a fabulous pasta dish without a hitch! Happy cooking!

Variations

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

• Add Vegetables: Sneak in some nutrition by tossing in fresh vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully. Just sauté them in the olive oil before adding the garlic for a colorful, healthy twist!
• Herbs Galore: Switch up the dried basil with other herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also be added at the end for a burst of flavor.
• Protein Boost: If you want to make it heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost. Just mix them in with the pasta and sauce!
• Cheesy Goodness: Besides Parmesan, try adding mozzarella or ricotta for a creamy texture. You can even mix in some cream or a splash of milk to create a richer sauce.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce: For a different take, stir in a bit of cream or a dollop of cream cheese after simmering the tomatoes. This will give you a deliciously creamy tomato sauce that’s comfort food at its best!

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cooking so much fun. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your delicious pasta leftovers fresh and tasty! Storing and reheating properly can make all the difference in enjoying your meal again.

First things first, if you have any leftovers, let the pasta cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can make your pasta soggy. Once it’s cool, transfer the pasta into an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days—if it lasts that long!

When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta again, there are a couple of easy reheating methods:

• Stovetop: This is my favorite way! Just place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to help loosen it up and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick!
• Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade pasta dish as if it were fresh out of the pot. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Now let’s take a peek at the nutritional information for this delicious pasta dish! It’s always good to know what’s on your plate, especially when you’re cooking at home. Here’s a breakdown of the typical values per serving:

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of pasta or how much cheese you sprinkle on top. But overall, this recipe offers a wholesome balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Enjoy your cooking, and remember—eating well can be simple and satisfying!

FAQ Section

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds a bit more fiber to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might take a minute or two longer to reach that perfect al dente texture.

What if I don’t have diced tomatoes?
No worries! You can use whole tomatoes and just crush them up in the pan, or even tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the seasoning a bit, since sauces can vary in flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This pasta dish is perfect for meal prepping. Just follow the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it according to the instructions above.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free option, just swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are so many great options available now, and the cooking method stays the same!

Can I add meat to this dish?
Definitely! If you want to make it heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, ground beef, or even sausage. Just make sure to cook the meat separately and mix it in with the pasta and sauce at the end. It’ll be delicious!

Easy Recipes: 5 Steps to Perfect Beginner Pasta!

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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 quick recipe for beginners to make a delicious pasta dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add diced tomatoes and dried basil. Stir well.
6. Let sauce simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Drain pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to combine.
8. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

• Do not overcook the pasta.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: easy recipes, simple pasta, beginner cooking