Oh, let me tell you, there’s something incredibly comforting about a delicious plate of tomato pasta! This recipe is not only bursting with flavor, but it’s also super simple—perfect for anyone just starting out in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this; it was a rainy evening, and the aroma of garlic and tomatoes filled my little apartment, wrapping me in warmth. You’ll find that this dish comes together in no time and requires just a handful of ingredients. Trust me, once you try making your own tomato pasta, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for takeout! So, let’s dive into this beginner-friendly recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Ingredients List

For this delightful tomato pasta recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together to create magic on your plate. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 200g dried spaghetti
• 400g canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

These ingredients are easy to find, and I bet you might even have some of them in your pantry already! The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—fresh, vibrant flavors without any fuss. So gather these up, and let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Boil the Water

First things first, grab a large pot and fill it with water. You’ll want to bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt—this is essential for flavoring the pasta as it cooks! Once the water is boiling, you’re all set for the next step.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Time to add your spaghetti! Carefully drop it into the boiling water and stir it around a bit to make sure it doesn’t stick together. Now, it’s important to check the package instructions for cooking time, but generally, you’ll want to cook it until it’s al dente—meaning it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and taste a strand a minute or two before the time is up to get it just right!

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

While your pasta is cooking, let’s move on to the sauce. In a separate pan, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the chopped onion. You’ll want to sauté it until it’s translucent—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it develops the flavor base for your sauce!

Step 4: Add Garlic

Next up, stir in the minced garlic. Be careful here! Garlic cooks quickly, and you don’t want it to burn, which can make it taste bitter. Just give it a quick sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant.

Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Now, it’s time to make the magic happen! Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the pan with the onions and garlic. Add salt and black pepper to taste, and let this simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your spaghetti is cooked to perfection, drain it in a colander, but don’t rinse it! Then, add the hot spaghetti directly to the pan with your tomato sauce. Toss everything together gently, making sure each strand is coated in that luscious sauce. This is where the fun really begins—smell that amazing aroma?

Step 7: Serve the Dish

Finally, it’s time to serve up this delightful dish! Plate the pasta and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves on top. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also gives a fresh flavor that perfectly complements the tomato sauce. Enjoy your homemade tomato pasta—it’s a comforting classic that’s sure to impress!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutrition of this delicious tomato pasta! Keep in mind that the actual values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a general guideline. Here’s what you can expect for a typical serving:

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

This meal is not only comforting but also provides a nice balance of carbs and protein, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. So go ahead and enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself right!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious tomato pasta, here are some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly! First, keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks; overcooking can turn it mushy. Remember, al dente is your friend! Taste it a minute or two before the package says it’s done to get it just right.

When making the sauce, don’t rush the sautéing process. Cooking the onion until it’s translucent really brings out the flavor, and don’t forget to watch the garlic—just a minute is all you need to avoid that bitter taste. Lastly, always taste your sauce before serving! Adjust the salt and pepper as needed to really make those flavors pop. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch up this tomato pasta recipe! Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes when you sauté the garlic for a delightful heat that really elevates the dish!
• Fresh Twist: Swap out the canned tomatoes for fresh, diced tomatoes for a lighter, more vibrant flavor. Just make sure to cook them down a bit longer to get that delicious sauce consistency.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme alongside the basil for a more complex flavor profile.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers for an extra dose of veggies and color!
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese right before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own—there’s really no wrong way to enjoy a comforting bowl of tomato pasta!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have this delightful tomato pasta ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! A simple salad is always a fantastic choice—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. You could toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra freshness!

If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, garlic bread is a classic pairing that’s hard to resist. Just a loaf of crusty bread, a little butter, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley can elevate your meal to a whole new level!

For a more substantial side, consider roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale. They add color and nutrition without overshadowing the main event. And let’s not forget a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of your pasta before serving—it’s the cherry on top that adds a touch of indulgence!

With these sides, your meal will be complete, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a cozy dinner that’s not just delicious but also beautifully presented. Enjoy every bite!

Your Turn!

I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making this tomato pasta? What did you think? Whether you followed the recipe to a tee or added your own twist, feel free to share your experiences in the comments below! If you have any questions or need tips along the way, don’t hesitate to ask—I’m here to help you navigate your cooking journey. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so let’s chat about your favorite parts of this recipe or any variations you’ve tried. I can’t wait to read your stories and see how you’ve made this dish your own!

For more pasta inspiration, check out our pasta recipes or learn about the health benefits of tomatoes here.

Tomato pasta recipes: 7 simple steps to deliciousness!

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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 tomato pasta recipe perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Drain spaghetti and add it to the tomato sauce.
8. Toss well to combine and heat through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm when you bite it.
• You can add chili flakes for some heat.
• Feel free to use fresh tomatoes if you prefer.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• 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: tomato pasta recipes