There’s something truly comforting about a pasta recipe red that brings me right back to my childhood kitchen, where the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes mingled with Mama Lou’s laughter. That deep, vibrant red sauce wasn’t just dinner; it was tradition, love, and family all stirred into one pot. My sister Ouma and I would eagerly wait, noses pressed against the stove, as Mama Lou slowly coaxed every bit of flavor from fresh ingredients. Today, I’m excited to share a pasta recipe red that’s close to my heart—one that honors those warm memories and invites you to create your own stories around the table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe red
This pasta recipe red is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity and depth. The sauce is hearty, balanced, and full of that homemade charm that instantly makes you feel at home. Growing up, Mama Lou’s kitchen was my sanctuary, and this red sauce was the centerpiece of many family gatherings. It’s a recipe that embraces patience—the kind of slow-cooked magic that turns humble tomatoes into a luscious, soul-satisfying sauce.
What I adore most is how adaptable this recipe is. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a Sunday family feast, it fits every occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic canvas for creativity—add fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or toss in some vegetables to make it your own. When I make this dish now, I often think about Ouma and how we’d sneak bites of the sauce before it even touched the pasta. It’s a simple joy that never fades.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe red
- 1 pound (450g) dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, to serve
Substitution suggestions: If you prefer gluten-free pasta, rice noodles or zucchini ribbons work wonderfully. For a twist on the sauce, you can swap dried herbs for fresh ones—just add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavor. And if you want to add a smoky depth, a splash of red wine or a pinch of smoked paprika can elevate the sauce beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 8g (mostly from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 9g (natural from tomatoes)
- Sodium: 350mg (adjust with salt)
These numbers are based on a typical serving size of about 1.5 cups pasta with sauce. Keep in mind, adding cheese or extra oil will increase fat and sodium content slightly. For a lighter version, you can reduce the olive oil or use whole wheat pasta to boost fiber.
Print
Irresistible Red Pasta Recipe That Will Ignite Your Taste Buds
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe red. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, to serve
Substitution suggestions: If you prefer gluten-free pasta, rice noodles or zucchini ribbons work wonderfully. For a twist on the sauce, you can swap dried herbs for fresh ones—just add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavor. And if you want to add a smoky depth, a splash of red wine or a pinch of smoked paprika can elevate the sauce beautifully.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the sauce’s sweetness—Mama Lou always said, “Let the onion sing first.”
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The aroma here is one of my favorite kitchen scents—it always brings back memories of Ouma and me setting the table eagerly.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste. Add sugar if using, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. This is your moment to add a pinch more salt or a touch more spice, depending on your preference.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring gently to coat every strand. If you like, save a little sauce for plating and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated cheese.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the warmth that only a pasta recipe red made with love can bring.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your pasta recipe red
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the sauce’s sweetness—Mama Lou always said, “Let the onion sing first.”
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The aroma here is one of my favorite kitchen scents—it always brings back memories of Ouma and me setting the table eagerly.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste. Add sugar if using, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. This is your moment to add a pinch more salt or a touch more spice, depending on your preference.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring gently to coat every strand. If you like, save a little sauce for plating and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated cheese.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the warmth that only a pasta recipe red made with love can bring.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe red
One of the secrets Mama Lou taught me was patience. Letting the sauce simmer slowly, without rushing, is what deepens the flavor and creates that comforting richness. I remember one rainy afternoon when Ouma and I sat by the kitchen window, watching the sauce bubble gently on the stove as we shared stories and laughter. Those moments, more than anything, flavor the dish. Learn more: Delicious Pasta Recipe No Dairy That Everyone Will Love
Use good quality canned tomatoes—they make all the difference. San Marzano tomatoes have a natural sweetness and low acidity that give the sauce a clean, vibrant taste. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can also peel and crush them yourself for an even fresher approach.
Don’t forget to salt your pasta water generously. It seasons the pasta from within and makes every bite sing. Also, reserving some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency is a small trick that ensures your sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.
Finally, don’t be afraid to customize. I often add sautéed mushrooms or olives when I want an earthy twist. Ouma loves her pasta topped with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a handful of fresh arugula for peppery freshness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta recipe red pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette—a light contrast to the richness of the sauce. Crusty bread, preferably toasted with garlic butter, is perfect for mopping up every last drop. When I serve this for family dinners, there’s always a bowl of mixed olives and marinated artichokes on the side, just like Mama Lou’s table used to have.
For wine lovers, a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato sauce’s acidity and herbs wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon refreshes the palate nicely.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from this pasta recipe red keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the sauce and pasta separately if possible to maintain the best texture. When reheating, warm the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Toss the pasta in the heated sauce just before serving.
If you want to freeze the sauce, cool it completely and place it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove. Avoid freezing the pasta itself, as it tends to lose its texture, but freshly cooked pasta tossed in sauce after reheating tastes just as comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe red?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe red include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make pasta recipe red?
The total time to make pasta recipe red includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe red ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe red can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with pasta recipe red?
pasta recipe red pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe red suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe red may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Preparing this pasta recipe red always brings me back to my roots, to the warmth of Mama Lou’s kitchen where food was a language of love and family connection. It’s a recipe that’s stood the test of time, carried forward by the stories Ouma and I share as we cook it together today. I hope as you make this dish, it fills your home with the same comforting glow and invites your loved ones to gather around the table, sharing not just a meal but a piece of your heart.
“Cooking is more than ingredients and technique; it’s memory, tradition, and the joy of sharing.”
