Pasta with tomato sauce

Pasta with Tomato Sauce: A Tasty and Flavorful Recipe

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I invite you to discover together the recipe for pasta with tomato sauce, a perfect combination of pasta and sauce that will bring an explosion of flavors and colors to your table. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, allowing for adaptations based on individual preferences. Get ready to enjoy a dish that combines tradition with innovation.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- Pasta: 150 - 200 g (choose your favorite type, fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- Onion: 1 large onion
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Olive oil: 2-3 tablespoons (for a more intense flavor)
- Bell pepper: 1 (preferably red or yellow for vibrant color)
- Tomato puree: 400 g (or tomato juice for a smoother texture)
- Water: 1 cup (adjust the amount for desired consistency)
- Fresh basil: a few leaves (or dried if you don't have fresh)
- Vegeta: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a richer taste)
- Pepper: to taste
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (for a hint of heat)
- Parmesan or feta cheese: for serving (optional)
- White wine: 100 ml (optional, but recommended for a refined flavor)
- Olives: a few, for added flavor (optional)

Preparation

1. Preparing Ingredients: Start by peeling the onion and garlic. Chop the onion into small cubes and mince the garlic. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of our sauce.

2. Sautéing Vegetables: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and starts to brown. This step is essential as it will enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the Bell Pepper: Once the onion is ready, add the sliced bell pepper and continue to sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes. The bell pepper will add a sweet flavor, perfect for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.

4. Preparing the Sauce: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato puree and, if desired, the white wine (which will deepen the flavors). Pour in a cup of water, adjusting the sauce's consistency to your preference (if you want a thicker sauce, add less water). Season with pepper, paprika, and Vegeta. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

5. Boiling the Pasta: In another pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and the pasta, cooking according to the package instructions. It usually takes 8-12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta. After boiling, drain and keep a little of the cooking water for any adjustments to the sauce.

6. Combining Pasta with Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to it. Mix well to ensure the sauce coats all the pasta evenly. Let everything simmer together for another 10 minutes so the pasta absorbs all the flavors.

7. Finalizing the Dish: Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh basil leaves. This will add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish. Serve with grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top for an even tastier flavor.

Serving and Variations

Pasta with tomato sauce pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a serving of grilled vegetables. For a complete meal, you can also serve it alongside roasted chicken or pork chops. If you want to experiment, try adding black or green olives to the sauce; they will provide a delicious Mediterranean flavor.

Chef's Tip

To achieve an even richer sauce, you can make a small thickening with flour and tomato puree: in a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water and add the mixture to the sauce in the last minutes of cooking. This method will give you a creamy and consistent sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe for pasta with tomato sauce is not only tasty but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while onion and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil provides healthy fats essential for a balanced diet. The calories for a serving of pasta with tomato sauce are approximately 350-400, depending on the amount of cheese and oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice, providing higher fiber and nutrient content.

2. How can I make the sauce spicy?
Add chili flakes or chili sauce to the tomato sauce for an extra kick.

3. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

Pasta with tomato sauce is a perfect choice for a quick dinner, but also a dish that can impress at a special event. With a little effort and simple ingredients, you will create a delicious and satisfying main course. I encourage you to try this recipe and adapt it to your own tastes. Enjoy your meal!