Perfect Pasta with Homemade Marinara Sauce

Pasta dishes are always a hit in any home, making it the perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a quick and delicious meal. This homemade pasta recipe is easy to prepare, even for beginners, and can be customized according to personal taste. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, with around 6 servings. Let's dive into how you can make this delightful pasta dish in your kitchen!

Ingredients

400g of dried spaghetti or any preferred pasta type
500ml of tomato puree
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of sugar (optional)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt to taste
Fresh basil or oregano for garnishing (optional)

Steps to Prepare Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Boil the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred type and amount of pasta, according to package instructions. After it reaches al dente consistency, strain and set aside.
Cooking the Marinara Sauce. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened for about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to stir until fragrant.
Add the tomato puree and sugar (optional) into the pan. Stir well, then let it simmer on low heat for around 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. The sugar helps balance out some of the acidity in the tomatoes, making your marinara smoother and more palatable.
Mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce gently to ensure even distribution of flavors. Season according to taste. You can serve it garnished with fresh basil or oregano for a final touch.

Additional Tips and Variations

To make this dish more satisfying, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese on top once you have mixed the pasta with marinara sauce. It adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the meal.
For a heartier meal, add meatballs or ground beef into the marinara sauce before simmering it for 10 minutes. This can be done alongside your boiling pasta and will greatly enhance the flavors of this classic dish.
If you prefer to make ahead, prepare the marinara sauce up to a day in advance, then reheat it with the cooked pasta as needed.

Why Try Homemade Pasta?

Homemade pasta is not only healthier but also incredibly versatile. It allows for customization and experimentation based on personal preferences without the need for pre-packaged ingredients that might have additives or preservatives.

The process of making pasta by hand, although time-consuming, can be rewarding as it provides a tactile experience while creating something delicious from scratch. Additionally, there are numerous recipes online offering different techniques and shapes to explore.

Conclusion

Pasta with marinara sauce is one of the simplest yet most beloved dishes in many cultures around the world. Whether you're hosting friends for dinner or simply looking forward to a satisfying meal at home, this recipe proves that homemade pasta can be easy and delightful.

By following these steps and experimenting with flavors and additions, you'll be able to create a dish that not only fills your stomach but also brings joy to your dining table. Enjoy your cooking time and the delicious results!