Easy Pasta Recipe for Beginners: Quick, Delicious, and Perfect Every Time

Pasta is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, thanks to its versatility, simplicity, and ability to pair with countless sauces and ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic spaghetti with marinara or a rich Alfredo sauce, pasta serves as the perfect base for endless meal options. This beginner-friendly pasta recipe will guide you through making a delicious and satisfying meal in no time. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe and get cooking!

How to Make Easy Pasta: Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite variety)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes or 1 jar of marinara sauce
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes

Pour the diced tomatoes (or marinara sauce) into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine, then add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pasta from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delicious, homemade pasta!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

This recipe works with almost any type of pasta, including spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, and fusilli. You can choose based on your preference or what you have on hand. Longer pasta like spaghetti pairs well with thinner sauces, while shorter pasta like penne or rigatoni works well with chunkier sauces.

2. How do I prevent pasta from sticking together?

To prevent your pasta from sticking together, make sure to stir it occasionally while cooking and use plenty of water in the pot. Additionally, adding a small amount of olive oil to the water after draining the pasta can help reduce stickiness.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make this pasta recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free version. Many brands offer gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa that tastes just as delicious as traditional pasta.

4. Can I add protein to this pasta recipe?

Absolutely! This simple pasta recipe is versatile and pairs well with various proteins. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground beef to make the meal heartier. For a vegetarian option, you can add sautéed mushrooms or a can of chickpeas for extra protein.

5. How do I store leftover pasta?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen up the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.

6. What other sauces can I use for this recipe?

While this recipe uses a simple tomato-based sauce, you can easily swap it out for other sauces. Alfredo sauce, pesto, and a classic Bolognese are all great options. You can also experiment with mixing sauces for a unique flavor profile.

7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Simply dice about 4-5 medium-sized fresh tomatoes and add them to the skillet. Cook them down for a bit longer to achieve the same level of richness as canned tomatoes. You may want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

8. Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Reserving a bit of pasta water helps thicken and emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture. The starch from the pasta water binds with the sauce, ensuring it clings to the pasta more effectively. While it’s not absolutely necessary, it can significantly improve the dish’s overall texture.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta fresh and combine it with the reheated sauce.

10. What side dishes go well with this pasta recipe?

This simple pasta pairs well with various side dishes such as garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. A light Caesar salad or steamed broccoli can complement the flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta

Salt the Pasta Water Well: Properly salted pasta water is essential for flavor. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and cheese elevate the flavor of the dish. Try to use fresh basil, parsley, and Parmesan for garnishing if possible.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pasta continues to cook after you drain it, so aim for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Experiment with Add-Ins: This basic pasta recipe is a great foundation for experimentation. Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This easy pasta recipe is the perfect go-to dish for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a delicious, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for yourself or feeding a crowd, this pasta recipe is sure to impress. By answering common questions and offering valuable tips, you’ll have everything you need to make the perfect plate of pasta every time. Buon appetito!