Ingredients
8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli—any kind!)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ medium onion, finely chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed or diced tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or blend of dried oregano + basil)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Note: Don’t skip the tomato paste—it adds depth and richness in seconds.
Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more—just until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
3. Build the Sauce
Push onions to the side and add tomato paste to the center. Cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor, then stir into the onions.
Add canned tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
If using, stir in spinach until just wilted.
4. Combine & Serve
Add drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan, fresh basil, or a pinch of red chili flakes.
Recipe Variations
Protein boost: Add cooked ground turkey, Italian sausage, or white beans
Creamy twist: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream or plant-based milk
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes with the garlic
Vegan version: Skip cheese; use nutritional yeast for umami
Extra veg: Toss in roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini
Serving Suggestions
Classic: With garlic bread and a simple green salad
Cozy night in: Pair with a glass of red wine
Kid-friendly: Hide extra spinach in the sauce—they’ll never know!
Meal prep: Double the batch and store for quick lunches
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Not ideal for speed—canned tomatoes are already peeled, cooked, and consistent.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Use ½ tsp dried oregano + ½ tsp dried basil.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use GF pasta and check all labels.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water.
Allergy Information
Contains: Wheat (in pasta)
Gluten-free option: Yes
Dairy-free: Yes (skip Parmesan)
Nut-free: Yes
Vegetarian: Yes
Always verify ingredient labels if managing allergies.
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving, recipe serves 2)
Calories: 420
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g (Saturated: 2g)
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 580mg
Values may vary based on pasta and tomato brands.
This 10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta proves that simplicity can be soul-satisfying. With bold flavors, minimal effort, and endless flexibility, it’s the kind of meal that turns a chaotic evening into a moment of calm—one forkful at a time.
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