Oh, pasta dishes! They hold a special place in my heart because they’re just so wonderfully simple and satisfying. If you’re looking to dive into cooking, this recipe is perfect for beginners who want to whip up something delicious without feeling overwhelmed. Seriously, there’s something magical about a pot of boiling pasta and a fresh tomato sauce bubbling away on the stove. It’s quick, it’s easy, and you won’t need a culinary degree to impress your friends or family! Plus, you probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. So, let’s get started on this delightful journey to make a scrumptious pasta dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients List
- 200g pasta (I usually go for spaghetti or penne, but any type will work!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to for that rich flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on this, it adds so much aroma!)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (400g) (the canned ones are super convenient and tasty)
- Salt to taste (start with a pinch and adjust later)
- Black pepper to taste (freshly cracked if you have it—it makes a difference!)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (this is the cherry on top, trust me!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Water
First things first, grab a large pot—this is crucial because you want plenty of room for the pasta to dance around! Fill it with water and put it on the stove over high heat. It’ll take a few minutes to boil, but you’ll know it’s ready when you see those big, rolling bubbles. Don’t be tempted to add salt just yet; wait until it’s boiling for the best flavor infusion!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Once your water is boiling, it’s time to add the pasta. Check the package instructions for cooking times—most are around 8-12 minutes. Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks; this helps prevent it from sticking together. You want it al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a little bite to it. When it’s done, save a cup of that starchy pasta water before you drain it—trust me, it’s a secret weapon for the sauce!
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
While your pasta is cooking, let’s whip up that sauce! In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute—it should smell amazing! Then, add the diced tomatoes straight from the can. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the flavors marry, so don’t rush it!
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Now that your pasta is cooked and your sauce is ready, it’s time to bring them together! Drain the pasta, but remember to toss it with that reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Add the drained pasta to the sauce in the pan, and give it a good toss until everything is well coated. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to garnish with those lovely fresh basil leaves. They add a pop of color and flavor that’s absolutely delightful!
Nutritional Information
This pasta dish is not only delicious but also packed with good nutrition! Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 4g
Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands you use!
Tips for Success
Here are a few pro tips to make your pasta dish truly shine! First, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste—everyone’s palate is different, and a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat pasta; it adds a nice nuttiness and more fiber! And remember, if your sauce is too thick, that reserved pasta water is your secret weapon—it helps to loosen it up beautifully. Also, don’t skip the stirring while cooking the pasta; it’s key to preventing those pesky sticky clumps!
Variations
Want to shake things up a bit? There are so many fun ways to customize this pasta dish! For a veggie boost, try adding in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini right along with the garlic. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal. You can even stir in a spoonful of pesto for an extra layer of flavor or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This delicious pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that can elevate your dining experience! For a light and refreshing touch, serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Garlic bread is another fantastic companion, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. And don’t forget a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of your pasta—it adds a creamy richness that’s just divine! Trust me, these pairings will take your meal to the next level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super quick preparation—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Perfect for beginners; easy steps to follow.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Flavorful and satisfying, you’ll want seconds!
- Versatile—customize it to suit your tastes!
Your Feedback Matters
I’d love to hear how your pasta dish turned out! Did you add your own twist or stick to the classic recipe? Please leave a comment below to share your experience, rate the recipe, or even snap a photo and tag me on social media. Your feedback inspires me and helps others discover the joy of cooking!
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Pasta Dishes: 4 Simple Steps to Delicious Home Cooking!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious pasta dish for beginners.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (400g)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes to the pan and stir.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes.
- Once pasta is ready, drain it and add to the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- 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: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pasta dishes, easy pasta, beginner pasta recipe
