Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce Recipe

Looking for an easy homemade pasta sauce recipe? This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend family meals. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or looking to impress friends with your culinary skills, this recipe will have you on track.

The key ingredient here is simplicity—fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly and create a rich-tasting sauce that complements pasta perfectly. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, and it serves four people generously. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 600 grams fresh tomatoes (or 4 cans of crushed tomatoes)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil or oregano for garnish (optional)
• Pasta of your choice - such as spaghetti, fusilli, or penne (enough for four servings)

Instructions

1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic to the onions; stir gently for about a minute until fragrant but not browned.

3. Now, add the tomatoes along with some water to break them down (if using canned tomatoes). If you prefer more acidity and depth in your sauce, include tomato paste. Stir well so all ingredients are combined homogeneously.

4. Cover the pan partially and let it simmer for around 20 minutes or until the flavors meld together nicely. During this time, taste occasionally to adjust seasoning with salt as needed. You want the balance between sweetness from tomatoes and richness provided by the garlic and herbs.

5. While your sauce is cooking, prepare your pasta according to package instructions. Once al dente (tender but still firm), drain thoroughly and set aside.

6. To serve, toss cooked pasta with warm homemade tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or oregano if desired before serving hot.

Why You'll Love This Pasta Sauce Recipe

This recipe stands out not only because it's quick and easy but also due to its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even some red pepper flakes for a spicier version if you prefer. Additionally, adding vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can elevate the nutritional value while enhancing taste profiles.

The best thing about this homemade pasta sauce is how versatile it makes your dining experience. It pairs wonderfully well with various types of pasta like spaghetti, fusilli, penne, or even rice dishes if you're not strictly following traditional Italian cuisine lines. You could also use the sauce as a topping for pizza bases before baking them in the oven.

Remember that this simple recipe can easily transform into something more elaborate depending on what ingredients you have available at home. For instance, adding shrimp or chicken cubes right after cooking the garlic but before incorporating the tomatoes will turn it into a delightful seafood or meaty pasta dish without much extra effort.

Conclusion

There you go—a delicious, simple, and satisfying homemade pasta sauce recipe that requires minimal effort yet delivers big flavor. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for an easy meal solution during busy weekdays, this versatile sauce is sure to become one of your favorites. Enjoy every bite!