Classic Red Sauce Pasta Recipe

Classic Red Sauce Pasta is a quintessential dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine with its rich, vibrant, and aromatic tomato-based sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, where a handful of quality ingredients are transformed into a comforting, heartwarming meal. The sauce, made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a blend of herbs, simmers to perfection, creating layers of flavor that are both bold and nuanced. It’s a versatile recipe that serves as a base for many variations, allowing cooks to add their personal touch with additional ingredients like vegetables, meat, or cheeses.

The appeal of Classic Red Sauce Pasta lies in its universal comfort food status, appealing to all ages and palates. It’s a dish that’s as fitting for a cozy family dinner as it is for an elegant, romantic meal. Preparing this pasta dish from scratch offers a deeply satisfying culinary experience, far surpassing the convenience of jarred sauces. Each spoonful offers a taste of Italian tradition, a celebration of simple cooking that focuses on the freshness of ingredients and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 800g (28 oz) canned whole tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes, crushed
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Freshly ground black pepper and salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil leaves, a handful, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-wise Process

1. Cooking the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add salt to it. Add the pasta and cook according to the instructions given on the package, until al dente. Keep a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Throw in the minced garlic and cook for another one minute, until fragrant and aromatic.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet. If using sugar, add it now. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld. Stir occasionally.
4. Finish the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, add the chopped fresh basil and adjust seasoning if needed. If you feel the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the saved pasta water to get the right consistency.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly. If needed, add more pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
6. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, additional fresh basil, and red chili flakes if desired.

Number of Servings

• Serves 4 people.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Important Points

• Using quality tomatoes is key to a flavorful sauce. If tomatoes are out of season, canned whole tomatoes are a great alternative.
• Adjust the consistency of the sauce with reserved pasta water to ensure it perfectly coats the pasta.
• Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor; add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its freshness and aroma.
• Sugar is optional but can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions for Classic Red Sauce Pasta

Classic Red Sauce Pasta is best served hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a lovely depth of flavor and a touch of luxury to the dish. A side of garlic bread and a fresh salad make for perfect accompaniments, turning this pasta dish into a fulfilling meal. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red chili flakes can add a pleasant spice to each bite.

Final Thoughts

Classic Red Sauce Pasta stands as a testament to the power of simplicity in cooking, where the harmonious blend of simple ingredients yields a dish full of rich, comforting flavors. It’s a versatile recipe that invites experimentation, making it a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, mastering this classic dish is a rewarding endeavor that brings a piece of Italian culinary tradition into your home, promising to delight and satisfy with every forkful.

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