Simple Pasta

Pasta is one of the most loved comfort foods in the world, and for good reason. It is quick, affordable, filling, and incredibly versatile. Whether you are a college student cooking your first meal or a working professional looking for a fast dinner, this simple pasta recipe will become your go-to dish.

Ingredients You Need

• 200g pasta (penne, spaghetti, or any shape you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree or 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Red chilli flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or coriander leaves for garnish
• Grated cheese (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1 — Boil the pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions — usually 8 to 12 minutes for al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is the secret to a silky sauce.

Step 2 — Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the tomato puree or chopped tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and chilli flakes. Let it simmer for 8 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3 — Combine: Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. Cook together for 1 to 2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavours.

Step 4 — Serve: Plate the pasta, grate cheese on top, and garnish with fresh basil or coriander. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Best Pasta

• Always salt your pasta water generously — it is the only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Do not rinse cooked pasta — rinsing removes the starch that helps sauce stick.
• Reserve pasta water before draining — it contains starch and salt that transforms thin sauce into something silky.
• For extra protein, add cooked chicken, paneer, or chickpeas to the sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of garlic, tomato, and Italian seasoning creates a flavour base that is classic and familiar. It is a meal that can be on the table in under 20 minutes and customised with whatever vegetables or protein you have. Once you learn this base recipe, you can create dozens of pasta variations just by changing the ingredients.

Good food does not have to be complicated — sometimes the simplest recipes made with care and attention to technique are the most satisfying meals you will ever eat.