Perfect Pasta Recipe for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a simple yet delicious pasta recipe that you can whip up in no time? This perfect pasta dish is the ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you're craving something hearty and comforting. The key to this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the flavors of fresh ingredients to shine through.

Ingredients:

• 250 grams of spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

To prepare this pasta, start by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until it's al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. While the noodles are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent and soft.

Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and stir for about one minute until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and bring everything to a simmer. Let this mixture cook for around 10 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.

Once the pasta is done cooking, mix it into the tomato sauce. Stir gently so that every strand of spaghetti gets coated evenly with the savory sauce. Add fresh basil leaves towards the end of mixing for an extra burst of freshness.

If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving if you want a touch more flavor and texture. Serve this pasta hot either as part of a larger meal or all by itself – it’s that versatile!

Cooking Time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 people

This easy pasta dish not only satisfies your hunger but also provides you with essential nutrients like carbohydrates from the wheat in the pasta, vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, and protein from any additional sources you might include. It’s perfect for those who are watching their weight as it can be made without heavy cream or butter if needed.

A great accompaniment to this meal could be a simple green salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. For something more substantial, consider adding some grilled chicken breasts on the side which will add protein and keep you feeling full longer.

To make this dish even more exciting for your taste buds, try experimenting with different types of pasta such as fusilli or penne. You could also vary the sauce by using sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones, or adding some mushrooms to increase the nutritional value and depth of flavor. There’s no right way to enjoy this versatile dish; just go with what you like best!

Remember that while cooking times may vary slightly depending on how firm you prefer your pasta, keeping an eye on it as it nears readiness is crucial for optimal results. And don’t forget about proper portion control to avoid overeating which can lead to unwanted weight gain.

Healthy Eating Tips

Incorporating more homemade meals like this simple yet satisfying pasta into your diet isn't just tasty but also beneficial for maintaining good health. Homemade dishes usually have fewer additives and preservatives compared to store-bought options, making them healthier choices overall. Additionally, cooking at home can be a therapeutic experience that brings families closer together.

By following these straightforward instructions and using fresh ingredients whenever possible, you'll not only enjoy delicious pasta but also contribute positively towards your well-being.