Pasta with fresh tomato sauce

Pasta with fresh tomato sauce – a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

I invite you to discover the joy of cooking with this recipe for pasta with fresh tomato sauce! This dish is not only tasty and nutritious but also an excellent choice for a quick dinner, full of fresh flavors. Tomatoes, the main ingredient, bring a natural and vibrant taste, while basil and garlic perfectly complement the combination. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that you can adapt according to your preferences.

A brief history
Pasta with tomato sauce is a symbol of cuisine, often associated with family meals and convivial moments. Over time, this dish has evolved into various versions, but its essence remains unchanged: the simple combination of pasta and a delicious sauce made with fresh ingredients. Whether you choose to use cherry tomatoes or large tomatoes, each variant brings a unique touch.

Your ingredients
- 4 medium-sized, well-ripened tomatoes (+ a few small tomatoes, optional)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- A handful of fresh basil
- Salt, pepper, dried oregano
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Grated cheese (or parmesan, for a more savory option)
- Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, fusilli)

Useful tips for ingredients
- Tomatoes: Choose well-ripened tomatoes, as they will give your sauce an intense and natural flavor. Cherry tomatoes can be used for a sweeter sauce with an interesting texture.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential. You can adjust the amount according to how much you like its flavor.
- Fresh basil: Use fresh basil for an extra flavor boost. If you don't have fresh basil, dried oregano is a good alternative, but the taste will be different.
- Pasta: Choose whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes well under running water. You can cut the small tomatoes in half or quarters, depending on your preference. Larger tomatoes should be peeled (to make the sauce smoother), remove the seeds, and cut them into small pieces. This step can be simplified by briefly dipping the tomatoes in hot water, then in cold water; the skin will come off much easier.

2. Preparing the garlic: Peel the four cloves of garlic and slice them thinly. Garlic is an ingredient that adds depth to the sauce, but be careful not to burn it; it becomes bitter and ruins the entire recipe.

3. Cook the garlic: In a large pan, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently, stirring constantly, until it turns slightly golden. This step should not take more than 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the tomatoes: Once the garlic is ready, add all the tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Oregano adds a special flavor to the sauce, while the fresh basil that you will add later will give a fresh and aromatic taste.

5. Let it simmer: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. This process should take about 15 to 20 minutes. You will notice how the sauce becomes thicker and the flavors combine.

6. Boil the pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and then your preferred pasta, according to the instructions on the package. Make sure the pasta is al dente, so it doesn’t fall apart in the tomato sauce.

7. Finalizing the sauce: When the sauce reaches the desired consistency, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a few chopped basil leaves that you saved for the end. Fresh tomatoes will add a note of freshness.

8. Serving: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pan with the tomato sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is well coated.

9. Add toppings: When serving, sprinkle grated cheese or parmesan on top, along with fresh basil leaves for a special touch. If you like, you can also add a few slices of raw garlic for a more intense flavor.

Possible variations
- Add vegetables: You can incorporate zucchini or bell peppers to enrich the recipe and add more vitamins.
- Proteins: If you want a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken breast or shrimp, which pair wonderfully with the tomato sauce.

Frequently asked questions
1. What pasta is best for this sauce?
You can use any type of pasta, but spaghetti and penne are popular options. Choose pasta that can hold the sauce well.

2. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Of course, canned tomatoes can be a good alternative, but the sauce will have a different flavor. Make sure to choose good quality tomatoes.

3. How can I make this sauce even more flavorful?
Add some green or black olives for a Mediterranean taste or a pinch of chili powder for a spicy note.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and basil. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Garlic is well known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Conclusion
Pasta with fresh tomato sauce is a perfect example of simple yet flavorful food. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also teach you how to make the most of the fresh ingredients you have on hand. I encourage you to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe, turning it into a family favorite. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine, and your meal will be complete. Enjoy your meal!