Ingredients
Scale
These recipes use common ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work beautifully)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Feel free to substitute or add ingredients according to your taste. Nonna Rosa was a firm believer in improvisation—if you prefer a bit more spice, don’t hesitate to add extra red pepper flakes, or swap in fresh parsley for basil if that’s what you have on hand.
Instructions
Embarking on these recipes is like taking a flavorful journey through my family’s kitchen. Here’s how you can recreate these cherished dishes:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it thoroughly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for garnish.
As you cook, let your kitchen fill with stories and laughter, much like the ones I experienced as a child. Cooking is as much about creating memories as it is about feeding the body.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
