Are you ready to elevate your dinner game without breaking the bank? Dive into our "Pasta Delicious and Affordable Dishes" recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family or guests! With just a handful of simple ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you can whip up a mouthwatering Italian classic that’s as satisfying as it is budget-friendly. Get ready to savor a dish that not only delivers on flavor but also brings a touch of culinary magic to your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 200g of pasta, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 clove of garlic (minced), 400g of canned tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and fresh basil for garnish.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water, which will enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Add the 200g of pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Add the 400g of canned tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season the tomato sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss well to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your delicious and affordable pasta dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: For this recipe, any pasta shape you love will work, but consider using spaghetti or penne for a classic touch. Just make sure to follow the cooking time on the package for perfect al dente pasta!
- Enhance the Flavor: Don’t skip the salt in the boiling water! It’s essential for seasoning the pasta itself, making a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your dish.
- Garlic Timing: When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it. The moment it turns golden and fragrant, it’s time to add the tomatoes. Burnt garlic can ruin your sauce!
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This starchy water not only helps adjust the texture but also enhances the sauce's flavor.
- Garnish with Freshness: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color to your dish. For an extra aromatic touch, gently tear the leaves instead of chopping them to release more oils.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables or proteins like spinach, zucchini, or grilled chicken to the dish for added nutrition and variety.
- Leftover Magic: This pasta dish keeps well in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just reheat gently and enjoy your delicious creation all over again!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
