Ingredients
Scale
Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil works in a pinch, though fresh really brings out that garden-fresh flavor reminiscent of Nonna Rosa’s backyard.
Instructions
Let’s embark on this culinary journey step-by-step:
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to 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 sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the chopped basil, reserving a few leaves for garnish. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with the remaining basil and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
As my mother always said, “Taste as you go,” ensuring the flavors are just right, with a balance that reminds you of home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
