Classic Tomato Pasta

A simple, weeknight pasta dish with tomato sauce, fresh basil, and a touch of garlic. Quick to prepare nourishing for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  -3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz / 796 ml) crushed
• teaspoon sugar (optional, balance)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper ()
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water a boil. Cook pasta according to directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add garlic onion; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3–4.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sim for 8–10 minutes, allowing the to thicken slightly.
   . Add the pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the is thick, whisk in a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency.
4. Remove heat. Stir in torn and adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve immediately with Parmesan, if desired.

Tips and Vari

• For a richer sauce, simmer longer or finish with a small pat of butter.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or olives for extra flavor texture.
• Use cherry tomatoes for a lighter, sweeter sauce—halve them before cooking.
• Swap half of the pasta water with a splash of white wine for a brighter finish### Time Summary
• Prep: 10 minutes
• Cook: 15 minutes
• Total: 25 minutes

Serv

• Serv 4

Optional garnish

• Extra fresh basil
• A drizzle of olive oil