How to Make Perfect Pasta with Homemade Tomato Sauce

Pasta dishes have been a favorite in homes all over the world for generations. Whether you're looking to make your own classic pasta or need a simple dish for dinner, this homemade tomato sauce recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients needed:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, blended or crushed
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Pasta of your choice (pappardelle, fusilli, spaghetti etc.)

Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Start by preparing a medium-sized saucepan and add the olive oil. Over medium heat, sauté the onions until they are translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute or two until fragrant but not burnt. Garlic should always be used with caution because it can easily burn!

Once the onions become soft, add the blended tomatoes into the mixture in the saucepan. Stir well so that all ingredients are combined properly. Simmer on low heat while you continue stirring to prevent burning of the sauce.

Add salt and a few fresh basil leaves for extra flavor if desired. Let this simmer slowly for 15 minutes or until it has thickened slightly, stirring occasionally to combine everything and ensure even cooking.

Meanwhile, start cooking your pasta according to package instructions. Be sure not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the sauce after you've combined them together.

After 15 minutes of simmering, check the thickness of the tomato sauce by giving a taste. If needed, add more salt for flavor or let it simmer longer until you have reached your desired consistency and flavor intensity.

Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water before placing it back into the pot. Now add the warm tomato sauce to the drained pasta and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you get a creamy consistency that coats the noodles nicely.

Taste again and make any necessary adjustments by adding more salt or basil if required. Plate the pasta onto serving dishes, garnished with extra basil leaves for an added touch of freshness.

This dish can be served hot straight from the pan as it's a simple meal that pairs well with a side salad or a glass of red wine. For those who like to experiment in the kitchen, consider trying different types of pasta and pairings such as spinach pasta with pesto sauce, zucchini noodles with lemon zest for a lighter option.

Homemade tomato sauce is an excellent way to enjoy a simple yet flavorful dish that can be customized according to personal taste. By making it from scratch, you control all the ingredients and flavors involved which makes it healthier than store-bought options. Additionally, cooking pasta at home allows for portion control, ensuring that each person gets the right amount of nutrients.

For those who want to expand their culinary skills even further, there are numerous variations of this recipe available online with different types of vegetables or proteins such as spinach and mushrooms added into the sauce or using ground beef instead. Experimentation in cooking can be a rewarding experience for both experienced cooks and beginners alike.

In conclusion, whether you're looking to make a classic pasta dish or trying something new and exciting, this homemade tomato sauce recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. It's easy to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and offers endless opportunities for creativity. Try it today and enjoy the taste of home-cooked meals!