There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-prepared plate of Red Sauce Pasta. This dish, a quintessential part of Italian cuisine, brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Picture it: vibrant red sauce smothering perfectly cooked pasta, enhanced by garlic, herbs, and a hint of creaminess that pleases both the eyes and the palate.
Why We Love This Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
This Red Sauce Pasta recipe is an absolute favorite for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly straightforward, making it perfect even for those who might be new to cooking. The ingredients are simple and can often be found in your pantry. Secondly, the homemade red sauce is bursting with flavor; the combination of garlic, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of dried herbs creates a symphony of taste with each bite. The addition of cream and cheese lends a luxurious touch that transforms this dish into something truly special.
Moreover, this recipe allows for creativity. Feel free to tweak it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, creating a personalized pasta dish just for you. It can be served fresh and warm right off the stove, or transformed into a cheesy baked delight that will leave your family asking for seconds. Simply put, this Red Sauce Pasta recipe stands out because it marries simplicity and flavor while being adaptable to your tastes.
Ingredients about Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
To prepare delicious Red Sauce Pasta, you will need the following ingredients, measured precisely to bring out the best flavors in your dish:
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 10 cloves Garlic, chopped finely
- 3 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 500 grams Tomatoes, chopped and blended into a puree
- 2 tsp Sugar
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Powder
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1 tsp Dried Basil
- 1 tsp Red Chilli Flakes
- 2 1/2 cups Dried Pasta (250 grams)
- 2 tsp Salt (for cooking pasta)
- 6 cups Water
- 1/4 cup Cream (for creamy red sauce pasta)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (for creamy red sauce pasta)
- 1 tsp Butter (for cheesy baked red sauce pasta)
- 2 tbsp Cream Cheese (for cheesy baked red sauce pasta)
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (for cheesy baked red sauce pasta)
- 2 tbsp Parmesan Cheese (for cheesy baked red sauce pasta)
How to Make Red Sauce Pasta Recipe Directions
Making Red Sauce Pasta is an excellent way to hone your culinary skills, and it starts with simple steps. Here’s how to create that delicious red sauce, followed by the preparation of the pasta:
Begin by finely chopping the garlic. Setting it aside will prepare you for the fragrant base of your sauce.
Next, chop the tomatoes and blend them into a fine puree. It’s important not to add any water while blending, as you want the puree to be thick and rich.
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about a minute. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
After the garlic is aromatic, add 3 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pan. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes; this will caramelize the paste, intensifying its flavor.
Once the tomato paste is well-cooked, add your blended tomato puree to the pan. Cover and let it simmer on medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Season the sauce by adding 2 teaspoons of salt, 2 teaspoons of sugar to balance acidity, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper powder, and a sprinkle of dried oregano, basil, and red chili flakes. Mix everything well and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, fill a separate pot with six cups of water, adding 2 teaspoons of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your dried pasta, cooking according to the package instructions until al dente.
Before draining the pasta, save a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can help adjust the consistency of your sauce later.
After draining the pasta, add it directly to the pan of red sauce. Combine thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water bit by bit until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
If you want a creamy version, take 2 cups of the red sauce and mix it with 1/4 cup of cream and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, stirring until fully incorporated.
For a baked cheesy version, melt 1 teaspoon of butter in a bowl. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of cream cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until smooth, then mix with the pasta and remaining red sauce. Transfer to a baking dish, top with 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes.
There you have it! A straightforward yet flavorsome Red Sauce Pasta recipe that promises satisfaction.
How to Serve Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
Presentation can elevate your dining experience, and serving your Red Sauce Pasta is no exception. Start by plating a generous portion of the pasta in a shallow bowl or on a warming plate to keep it hot. The rich red sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a visually appealing dish.
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for a burst of flavor, paired with a dash of black pepper to enhance the taste. You might also consider adding a garnish of fresh basil leaves for a pop of green and added aroma.
For sides, a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar can complement the flavors of the pasta beautifully. You may also serve warm garlic bread on the side, perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
Expert Tips: Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
To ensure your Red Sauce Pasta comes out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, select ripe, seasonal tomatoes, as they provide the best flavor.
Adjust the Herbs: Experiment with your favorite herbs. While dried herbs are convenient, using fresh herbs can make a significant difference in aroma and taste.
Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing your tomato sauce to simmer and develop flavors brings out the best in the ingredients. Patience is key!
Cooking Pasta: Always cook your pasta until al dente; this means the pasta will have a slight bite to it, which will hold up well when mixed with the sauce.
Fine-Tune the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream and cheese according to your preference for creaminess.
Pasta Water Magic: Remember to use that pasta cooking water! It’s a great way to thin out the sauce without losing flavor.
By following these tips, you can elevate a simple Red Sauce Pasta into a restaurant-quality dish.
How to Store Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
To store any leftover Red Sauce Pasta, place it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing the container. It can typically last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
If you anticipate not eating the leftovers soon, consider freezing the pasta. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, allowing for some space at the top, as pasta can expand when frozen. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a quick defrost. Re-warming in a saucepan with a slight splash of water can help revive the flavors and textures before serving again.
Variation of Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
The amazing aspect of Red Sauce Pasta is its versatility. Here are some creative variations you can try that can enhance your dish beyond the traditional recipe:
Add Vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to give an extra layer of taste and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables along with garlic before adding the tomato sauce.
Protein Boost: For meat lovers, consider adding grilled chicken pieces, cooked ground beef, or sautéed shrimp. These additions transform the pasta into a hearty meal.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, try adding a few slices of jalapeños or extra chili flakes to elevate the flavor.
Herby Delight: Incorporating fresh basil, parsley, or arugula right before serving will provide a fresh taste that elevates the dish.
Cheesy Baked Pasta: For a creamy baked version, layer the pasta with extra cheese and bake it in the oven as described earlier. You can also include breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
These variations allow you to personalize your Red Sauce Pasta, catering to different taste preferences and making it a versatile dish you can enjoy repeatedly.
FAQ about Red Sauce Pasta Recipe
What is Red Sauce Pasta?
Red Sauce Pasta is a delightful pasta dish typically featuring a tomato-based red sauce, often spiced with basil, garlic, and other herbs. It is loved for its rich flavor and comforting texture.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can be a great alternative if fresh tomatoes are not available. Just choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
How can I make Red Sauce Pasta vegan?
You can easily modify the recipe to be vegan by using plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese. The sauce will still taste delicious!
How long does Red Sauce Pasta last in the fridge?
Leftover Red Sauce Pasta can last in your refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the red sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage, making mealtime even easier.
Red Sauce Pasta
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Large Pot
- Blender
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Red Sauce Base
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 10 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 500 grams tomatoes chopped and blended into a puree
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
Pasta
- 2 1/2 cups dried pasta about 250 grams
- 2 tsp salt for pasta water
- 6 cups water for boiling pasta
Creamy Version
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
Cheesy Baked Version
- 1 tsp butter
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Finely chop garlic and blend tomatoes into a thick puree without adding water.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Stir in tomato puree and simmer covered for 8-10 minutes.
- Season with sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red chili flakes. Mix well and let it cool slightly.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil with salt. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Mix cooked pasta with the red sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the consistency.
- For creamy version: Mix 2 cups of red sauce with cream and parmesan cheese until smooth. Add to pasta and mix well.
- For baked version: Mix butter, cream cheese, and mozzarella until smooth. Combine with pasta and red sauce. Transfer to baking dish, top with parmesan, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes.