Pasta with Tomato Sauce: Sicilian Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. In a separate large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
3. Stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese. Add the pasta to the sauce pan and toss until the pasta is coated with the sauce. Serve hot with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Verdict:

This classic Sicilian pasta dish is quick and easy to make, yet tastes like it simmered all day. The garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil add layers of flavor to the tomato sauce, while the Parmesan cheese gives it a nice bit of tangy saltiness. This pasta is perfect for a cozy night in, or served with a crisp green salad to make for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions:

This pasta can be served as a main dish with crusty bread on the side, or as a side dish with your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or shrimp. It’s also great for meal prepping and can be reheated for lunch throughout the week.