Italian pasta

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

 Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil or a handful fresh basil, chopped

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

 Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Large skillet or saucepan for sauce

• Strainer

• Wooden spoon

 Time & Difficulty

 Instructions

 Step 1: Cook Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

 Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden (about 1–2 minutes). Be careful not to burn.

3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with sauce.

2. Toss to coat the pasta well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

 Step 4: Serve

1. Serve pasta hot, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

2. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra flavor.

 Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread or bruschetta

• Simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach

 Variations

• Add cooked Italian sausage, meatballs, or grilled chicken for protein.

• Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.

• Use fresh tomatoes in season for a lighter sauce.

• Swap spaghetti for penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.

 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)