The aroma of simmering garlic and rich tomatoes fills the air as I prepare this pasta dishes recipe, a comforting dish that brings joy to any table. With each twirl of the fork, you’ll taste the warmth and love infused into every bite, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or spontaneous gatherings with friends.
Nothing beats the satisfaction of a homemade pasta dish; it’s like a warm hug served on a plate. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a casual Friday night, this recipe will elevate your dining experience to new heights, promising flavors that dance on your palate and memories that linger long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pasta dishes recipe is quick and easy, making dinner prep stress-free
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, delighting your taste buds with every bite
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests or family
- Enjoy its versatility by switching up ingredients based on what you have in your pantry
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they devoured it in minutes, leaving me both thrilled and slightly horrified at their speed.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Your Choice: Opt for spaghetti or penne; both soak up flavors beautifully while providing satisfying texture.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of your sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Always go for fresh cloves; they bring an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Canned Tomatoes: Use whole peeled tomatoes for a sweeter base; crush them lightly before cooking.
Herbs (Basil and Oregano): Fresh herbs brighten the dish; dried works too if you’re in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan over the top for an added layer of creaminess and flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
**Prepare Your Pasta**: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add a generous pinch of salt before tossing in your pasta, stirring occasionally until al dente—about 8-10 minutes.
**Sauté Garlic**: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned; about 1-2 minutes should do the trick!
**Add Tomatoes**: Pour in those crushed canned tomatoes, letting them mingle with the garlic. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until thickened—a delightful aroma will fill your kitchen.
**Combine Pasta and Sauce**: Once your pasta is ready, reserve some water before draining it. Combine the drained pasta with the tomato sauce in the pan, adding reserved water slowly until you achieve your desired consistency—creamy goodness awaits!
**Serve with Parmesan**: Plate up your delicious creation! Finish with freshly grated parmesan cheese sprinkled generously on top for that delightful umami kick.
**Enjoy Your Creation**: Sit down with loved ones and enjoy each bite of your homemade pasta dish while sharing stories and laughter—it’s what life’s all about!
You Must Know
- Pasta dishes are a canvas for creativity; never underestimate the power of fresh herbs and spices
- The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and textures can transform any meal into a masterpiece
- Remember, cooking pasta perfectly al dente is the key to an unforgettable dish!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling water and salting it generously, then add your pasta. While it’s cooking, whip up your sauce in a separate pan to save time and ensure everything is hot and fresh when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have at home. Try adding roasted vegetables or different cheeses to make the dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect pasta every time, remember to salt your water well—it should taste like the sea
- Always cook pasta al dente for better texture
- Lastly, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for your sauce!
Sometimes I whip up a big batch of pasta dishes for family gatherings, and the compliments keep rolling in! One time, my aunt declared my spaghetti sauce was better than her own—cue my smug smile!
FAQ
What types of pasta work best for this recipe?
Any type works well, but classics like spaghetti or penne shine through.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip meat and load up on veggies or plant-based proteins.
How do I know when my pasta is done?
Taste it! Perfectly cooked pasta should be firm yet tender—al dente!
Delicious Pasta Dish Recipe
Indulge in a comforting homemade pasta dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With simmering garlic, rich tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, every bite is infused with warmth and flavor. This quick and easy recipe not only satisfies hunger but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delightful aromas as you whip up this culinary masterpiece.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain, reserving some cooking water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet with sautéed garlic and season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
