Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This quick and easy Red Sauce Pasta recipe brings the authentic flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or date nights!
Ingredients For the Pasta:
• 2 cups Penne (or any pasta of your choice)
• Water (for boiling)
• 1 tbsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
For the Red Sauce:
• 4 large Tomatoes (ripe and red)
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tbsp Garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tsp Chili Flakes
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly crushed)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh Basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan or Mozzarella (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite, usually 8-10 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta starch water. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Puree
1. Make a small ‘X’ cut on the bottom of the tomatoes.
2. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until the skin starts to peel.
3. Remove, let them cool, peel off the skin, and blend into a smooth puree.
3. Make the Sauce
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent.
3. Pour in the fresh tomato puree. Mix well, cover, and cook on medium flame for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and oil begins to separate.
4. Season and Combine
1. Add the dried oregano, chili flakes, crushed black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
2. Toss in the boiled pasta and gently mix so the sauce coats every piece. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
3. Tear in some fresh basil leaves and mix.
5. Garnish and Serve
1. Turn off the heat and transfer to a serving plate.
2. Top with a generous amount of grated cheese and a pinch of chili flakes. Serve hot!