Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is like assembling a palette for a masterpiece. Each item plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s both harmonious and flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
If you’re out of crushed tomatoes, you can substitute with an equal amount of fresh tomatoes, finely chopped, and a tablespoon of tomato paste for added richness. And if basil isn’t your thing, fresh parsley can provide a lovely, earthy flavor.
Instructions
Cooking this pasta dish is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Each step is a page from my family’s culinary story, inviting you to become part of our tradition.
- Bring 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, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring each strand is well-coated. Stir in the fresh basil and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International