Ingredients
Scale
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need. This recipe doesn’t demand much, but each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating a symphony of flavors.
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti or penne work wonderfully)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the fresh basil for a handful of spinach, or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy kick. Cooking should always leave room for improvisation, a lesson I learned watching my mother work her magic.
Instructions
Cooking this dish is like writing a letter to an old friend—familiar and comforting. Follow these steps to bring it to life:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, letting the cheese melt into the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
