Savor Pasta with a Delicious Sauce and Parmesan
This easy penne pasta recipe features a rich tomato sauce with garlic and fresh basil, topped with grated Parmesan for a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 300 grams penne pasta Use whole wheat for added fiber if desired.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Use high-quality for best flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes Diced or tomato sauce can be used as alternatives.
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 leaves fresh basil, chopped
- 100 grams grated Parmesan cheese Reserve some for topping.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat Add according to spice preference.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water, add the penne pasta, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking the Tomato Sauce
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cooked penne pasta and toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in the chopped basil and half of the grated Parmesan. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Serving
- Plate the pasta and top with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil if desired.
Notes
This dish is extremely versatile; customize with sautéed vegetables or proteins as desired. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.