a bowl of pasta with various colorful toppings, such as tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cheese,  with a glass of wine in the background.

Pasta

the one pasta recipe you need for any occasion

By Marco Rossi

Published: 05 Oct 2024

The Only Pasta Recipe You Need for Anything Ever

Okay, I know what you are thinking. Great, another pasta recipe. But just hear me out. This is not just any ordinary pasta dish. It's a versatile masterpiece, an empty canvas to apply your culinary creativity upon, a comfort-food-as-impressive recipe.

Think about it: you get invited to dinner and have to bring something, or you come home after such a long day at work and want something filling but full of flavor, or you want to impress your family with something that's delicious without having to spend too much time in the kitchen. Well, here's the answer to all those situations: simple enough for a weeknight dinner, impressive enough for a special occasion.

What makes this recipe so special? It's adaptable: with your favorite ingredients and very easily modified to accommodate different dietary needs, this is the recipe for perfect pasta every time. Be you a seasoned chef or a cooking newbie, this recipe suits any person's need. Trust me, once you try it, you'll never want to use another pasta recipe again!

bowl of pasta with various toppings

bowl of pasta with various toppings | Image: Supplied

The Secret Ingredient: Love

Okay, I know, I know, love is a bit of a cheesy ingredient. But it's true. Love and care are the basis for success with any great dish. So crank up the tunes, grab your ingredients, and get ready to do something really special.

The Basics:

This is a recipe that leans heavily on just a few key ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. This is all about bringing those simple flavors to life.

  • Pasta: Of course, use whatever of your favorite pasta shapes you want. I love using spaghetti in this recipe, but penne, rigatoni, or whatever pasta shape you happen to like best works great.
  • Olive Oil: Indeed, the heart and soul of this recipe. If possible, use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Garlic: Be liberal with the amount of garlic; it gives quite an aroma and so much depth to this simple preparation.
  • Tomato Sauce: use a jar of sauce if you like, but trust me and make your own. All you will need is crushed tomatoes mixed with some garlic and herbs. omi
  • Cheese: Grated parmesan cheese is a must to give it a finishing touch, but you can add any other cheese you like, such as mozzarella, ricotta, or even a sprinkle of pecorino romano.

Making It Your Own:

Now, here is where the magic will be happening. This recipe calls for customization, sweetheart. Throw in some of your favorite veggies: mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Make it meaty, if you will, with some sausage or bacon. You may even go vegetarian by adding in some lentils, chickpeas, or tofu.

If feeling extra adventurous, add a splash of white wine in the sauce, or sprinkle some chili flakes to give it some heat. The possibilities are endless!

The One Pasta Recipe That Will Save Your Dinner

Here is the breakdown step by step for this pasta recipe. It's so easy, even a beginner can master it.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions.

Step 2: Make the Sauce (Optional)

If using store-bought sauce, skip this step. For the sauce, in a large skillet, over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook, until fragrant, for about a minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, herbs, and salt to taste. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Drain the pasta, then add it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until combined and the pasta is well coated. Sprinkle with cheese and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks:

  • If you want some added flavor, throw in a small amount of white wine with the sauce.   * For an even heartier meal, add some sautéed veggies, meat, or beans.
  • Stir in a spoonful of ricotta cheese or heavy cream for creaminess right before serving.

Beyond the Basics

What I like so much about this recipe is that, with flavors and textures, you can make it into quite a few other things.

  • Creamy Carbonara: Mix together egg yolks, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Then stir in cooked pasta through the sauce, creating a rich creamy sauce.
  • Spicy Arrabbiata: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the sauce some spicy heat.
  • Savory Pesto: Use high-quality pesto sauce for a really fresh and vibrant dish.

The possibilities are endless! So, get creative and go wild with it!.

More Than a Meal

This pasta recipe is more than just great flavors combined; loved ones get together over a meal and relive moments in your life.

  • Remember that dinner party? This recipe will have your guests wanting more.
  • Think of those tired nights when one would come home from work. This will be a quick recipe that will give one, within minutes, a deliciously comfortable meal.
  • Imagine family reunions. Everyone can enjoy this dish-kids and adults alike.

This pasta dish is more than just a recipe; it's a passport to connect. It is the best time when something special is made, bringing delight to all who are present around the table.

And with that, what are you waiting for? Let's cook and let me know what you think!

family having dinner together at a table

family having dinner together at a table | Image: Supplied

A good meal is a work of art, but it’s also a chance to connect with loved ones and create something special.

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