Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce Recipe

Homemade pasta sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with various types of pasta such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that many people love to prepare at home. This article provides an easy homemade pasta sauce recipe perfect for busy weeknights and weekend family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

To start, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and stir for another minute to release its flavor without burning it.

Add the tomato paste and stir continuously for around 2 minutes to prevent sticking. Season with dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper according to your taste preferences. Continue stirring until everything is well combined.

Lower heat down to low and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely. During this time, periodically check on it and stir occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom of the pan. For best results, keep a close eye on the sauce towards the end of cooking.

Once done, remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for color and extra freshness.

How to Use Your Homemade Pasta Sauce

This versatile pasta sauce pairs wonderfully well not only with your favorite types of noodles but also other dishes like pizza, lasagna, or meatballs. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on how much heat you prefer in your dish.

Quick Variations & Tips:

• Add more vegetables: For a heartier version, add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to your sauce before simmering it.
• Experiment with different herbs: Try using fresh oregano instead of dried basil for a Mediterranean twist.
• Dairy options: To make this dairy-free, simply omit the olive oil and add a splash of water or vegetable broth before simmering.

Making homemade pasta sauce not only saves money but also gives you control over what goes into your meal. Plus, it's incredibly easy to customize depending on your personal tastes and dietary needs.

When planning dinner for the week ahead, consider making a large batch of this delicious pasta sauce as it can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container inside the refrigerator. Alternatively, you could freeze portions in smaller containers so they're ready whenever you need them.

Whether enjoyed as part of a simple family dinner or served alongside gourmet dishes, our homemade pasta sauce recipe offers flexibility and convenience while delivering rich flavor every time. Try it out today and see how easy and rewarding cooking can be!

Conclusion

Creating delicious meals doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. By following this straightforward guide for making homemade pasta sauce, you'll be able to impress your guests without breaking the bank. Enjoy cooking and eating together with loved ones!