This Spaghetti with Classic Red Pasta Sauce is a timeless dish that’s simple, satisfying, and full of rich flavors. The hearty tomato sauce is made with fresh ingredients, making it a perfect base for pasta lovers.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Spaghetti: 300 g
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (400 g)
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Dried basil: 1 tsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Fresh basil: A few leaves, chopped (optional)
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Red Pasta Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Season the sauce with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: Add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta to coat evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the spaghetti on plates, garnished with freshly chopped basil (if using) and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Classic Red Pasta Sauce:
- Use fresh tomatoes: If you prefer a fresher flavor, use ripe tomatoes instead of canned, but be sure to peel and seed them before cooking.
- Make it heartier: Add ground beef, sausage, or meatballs for a more filling meal.
- Customize the sauce: Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat or a splash of red wine for depth.
This Spaghetti with Classic Red Pasta Sauce is the quintessential Italian comfort food. With its rich tomato sauce, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to family gatherings.
