Imagine twirling your fork into a steaming plate of spaghetti, coated in a rich, vibrant tomato sauce that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. This classic Italian dish is more than just a meal—it's a culinary experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate food lover, this foolproof recipe will have you creating restaurant-quality pasta in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and having all other ingredients measured and ready.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Add the drained spaghetti directly into the simmering tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh torn basil leaves. Optional: sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Salt your pasta water generously—it should taste like the sea! This is your only chance to season the pasta from the inside out.
- Always reserve a little pasta water before draining. Its starchy goodness can help create a silkier sauce if your tomato mixture needs thinning.
- Cook your pasta just shy of the package instructions for that perfect al dente texture. The pasta will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Fresh basil is a game-changer—tear it, don't chop it, to release maximum flavor and create beautiful, rustic presentation.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of red wine to your tomato sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
