Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Why You Should Make Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Pasta with marinara sauce is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many. It’s a simple and easy recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients. The homemade marinara sauce is full of flavor and pairs perfectly with the spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, it’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for any diet.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make pasta with marinara sauce for 4 servings:

• 450g spaghetti
• 1 onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 800g canned tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
2. While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the onion and garlic. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir to combine. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat.
5. Serve the pasta hot with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Variations

• Meat Sauce: Add cooked ground beef, pork, or chicken to the marinara sauce for a heartier meal.
• Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Creamy Sauce: Add heavy cream or half-and-half to the marinara sauce for a creamy and rich pasta dish.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinara sauce for a spicier pasta dish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or other gluten-free pasta of your choice to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pasta with marinara sauce is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The homemade marinara sauce is simple to prepare and can be customized to your liking with different variations. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!

FAQ

What type of pasta works best with marinara sauce?

Marinara sauce is commonly served with long, thin pasta shapes such as spaghetti or linguine, but it can also be paired with shorter shapes like penne or rigatoni.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for the marinara sauce?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for the marinara sauce. In fact, many recipes call for canned tomatoes because they are more consistent in flavor and texture.

How long can I store leftover marinara sauce in the fridge?

You can store leftover marinara sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.

Can I add meat to the marinara sauce?

Yes, you can add ground beef, Italian sausage, or other meats to the marinara sauce for added flavor and protein. Just brown the meat in a pan before adding it to the sauce.

How can I make the marinara sauce spicy?

To make the marinara sauce spicy, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeno peppers to the sauce while it’s cooking. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired level of heat.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter for the sauce?

Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter for the marinara sauce. Olive oil is a healthier option and it adds a nice flavor to the sauce.

How can I make the sauce sweeter?

To make the marinara sauce sweeter, you can add a pinch of sugar or honey to the sauce while it’s cooking. This will balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and create a more well-rounded flavor.

Can I add vegetables to the marinara sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as onions, garlic, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the marinara sauce for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté the vegetables in a pan before adding them to the sauce.

How much salt should I add to the sauce?

Start with a small amount of salt and taste the sauce before adding more. You can always add more salt later if needed. Remember that the salt content of canned tomatoes can vary, so adjust accordingly.

Can I use the marinara sauce for pizza?

Yes, you can use the marinara sauce as a pizza sauce. Just spread it on the pizza crust and add your favorite toppings before baking.