Ingredients
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and deepens in flavor.
Finish the sauce: Stir in fresh basil and a pinch of sugar (if needed) to balance the acidity. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use San Marzano tomatoes or a high-quality canned tomato brand.
- Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Want a heartier dish? Serve with meatballs or grilled chicken.
- Storage: Leftover sauce can be stored in the fridge for 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg