Ingredients
Scale
Creating this classic dish requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which might already reside in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Feel free to substitute the pasta type or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. My mother, Elena, often improvises with what’s on hand, a tradition I cherish and encourage.
Instructions
Let’s dive into crafting this delightful dish. Here’s how to bring this recipe to life:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
- Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles thoroughly with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
As you stir the sauce, imagine the bustling markets of Florence, where I first learned how to choose the ripest tomatoes—a skill that ensures the freshest, most flavorful sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International