Description
Pasta Napoletana is a classic Italian dish featuring long pasta tossed in a rich and fragrant tomato sauce made with garlic, onion, crushed tomatoes, and fresh basil. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and serves up a deliciously satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti or other long pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
To Serve
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly and cook together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Finish with Fresh Basil and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious and authentic Pasta Napoletana experience.
Notes
- For an even richer tomato flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
- This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or fresh garlic bread for a complete meal.
