Pasta with tomato sauce

Delicious Pasta Recipe with Tomato Sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Do you want to prepare a savory, quick, and filling lunch? This simple pasta recipe with tomato sauce is perfect for any food lover. With essential ingredients and without too much complication, you'll create a dish that will impress even the most discerning.

Ingredients:

- 250 g of pasta (choose your favorite type: spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 2 l water
- 500 ml tomato juice (or crushed tomatoes for a thicker sauce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a richer taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme and a bay leaf (to add subtle flavors)

Preparation Instructions:

1. Boil the water: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and a tablespoon of salt. Place the pot on high heat and wait until the water starts to boil. The salt will not only season the pasta but also help maintain its texture.

2. Add the pasta: When the water is boiling, add the pasta. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Let the pasta boil for 10 minutes or according to the package instructions, until al dente.

3. Tomato sauce: In a separate pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Pour the tomato juice into the pan and add salt, pepper, thyme, and the bay leaf. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors. If you want a smoother texture, you can use a blender to mix the sauce.

4. Drain the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, but keep a few tablespoons of the cooking water. This can be added to the sauce to thin it out if necessary.

5. Mix the pasta with the sauce: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the tomato sauce. Stir well to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce. If you want a creamier consistency, add a few tablespoons of the reserved water.

6. Serving: Serve the pasta warm, sprinkled with grated Parmesan or fresh basil for added flavor and an appealing look. This pasta with tomato sauce is perfect for a quick dinner, but you can turn it into a more sophisticated meal by adding sautéed chorizo or grilled vegetables.

Useful Tips:

- Don't forget to taste the pasta before draining it to ensure it has the desired texture.
- If using canned tomato juice, check the ingredients to avoid sauces with unhealthy additives.
- Vary the recipe by adding black olives or capers for a Mediterranean flavor, or even feta cheese for a creamy touch.

With this tomato sauce pasta recipe, you'll enjoy a delicious and comforting dish in just 20 minutes. Savor every bite!