Easy Pasta with Tomato Sauce

By EmmaApril 17, 2026
Owner & Founder

As I stood at my kitchen counter, the scent of garlic and olive oil filled the air, transporting me to a cozy Italian evening. I was making my favorite pasta dish, a simple yet satisfying recipe that never fails to hit the spot.

The sound of sizzling onions and the gentle simmer of tomato sauce created a soothing melody, making my stomach growl with anticipation. I loved how the soft glow of the kitchen lights highlighted the vibrant colors of the fresh basil and the rich red sauce, making the dish feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Ingredients
Instructions
What to Serve
Storage
Conclusion

Ingredients for Easy Pasta with Tomato Sauce

            To start, gather the following ingredients, each one carefully chosen to bring out the best flavors in this easy pasta dish.
        

8 oz (225g) spaghetti
2 cups (475ml) canned crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 tsp (5g) dried basil
1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
1/2 tsp (2g) salt
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
1 cup (115g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

            Now, let's move on to the steps to create this delicious pasta dish, where each component comes together in perfect harmony.
        

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Stir in the reserved pasta water and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the pasta is well coated.

            Note: Always check the package instructions for specific cooking times and temperatures to ensure food safety.
        

What to Serve with Easy Pasta with Tomato Sauce

The creamy sauce and tender pasta of this dish call for sides that provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon zest pairs beautifully with the rich tomato sauce, while the crunchy asparagus provides a satisfying contrast to the soft pasta. I love how the asparagus spears retain a hint of crunch even after roasting, adding a delightful textural element to the dish.

Garlic and Herb Focaccia: The aromatic flavors of the garlic and herbs in the focaccia bread complement the dish perfectly, and the crispy crust provides a lovely textural contrast to the soft pasta. I reach for this bread whenever I want to add a comforting, homemade touch to the meal.

Caprese Salad: The creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil in this classic salad provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish, cutting through the heaviness with their bright, summery flavors. Weekend brunches often feature this salad as a side, and I love how it adds a pop of color to the table.

Grilled Chicken with Rosemary: The smoky, herbaceous flavor of the grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce, and the rosemary adds a fragrant, aromatic note that ties the whole dish together. I love how the charred, crispy skin of the chicken provides a satisfying textural element, and the juicy meat inside is always a hit with my family.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic: The quick-cooked spinach with garlic provides a burst of nutrients and flavor, and the slightly bitter taste of the spinach cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. I love how the spinach wilts into the garlic-infused oil, creating a delicious, savory sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

Roasted Bell Peppers: The sweet, slightly smoky flavor of the roasted bell peppers adds a delightful contrast to the savory pasta, and the crunchy texture provides a satisfying element to the dish. I love how the peppers retain a hint of crunch even after roasting, adding a delightful textural element to the meal.

Green Salad with Italian Dressing: The light, refreshing flavor of the green salad with Italian dressing provides a lovely contrast to the rich pasta, cutting through the heaviness with its bright, tangy flavors. I love how the crunchy lettuce and crispy croutons add a satisfying textural element to the dish, and the homemade Italian dressing brings everything together beautifully.

Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes: The crispy, golden potatoes with garlic and herbs provide a satisfying side dish that pairs beautifully with the pasta, and the aromatic flavors of the garlic and herbs complement the dish perfectly. I love how the potatoes retain a hint of crunch even after roasting, adding a delightful textural element to the meal.

Storage and Serving Tips

To store this pasta dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

When reheating, add a splash of water or pasta sauce to the dish to prevent it from drying out, and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has warmed through and the pasta is heated to your liking.

Leftovers can also be repurposed into a delicious pasta bake by adding some shredded mozzarella cheese and baking in the oven until golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

            This easy pasta dish is a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours as well. With its simple ingredients and satisfying flavors, it's the perfect comfort food to enjoy on a cozy evening.
        