Simple Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) pasta (spaghetti or penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil leaves)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant (don't let it burn).
3. Add crushed tomatoes to the pan. Stir in basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or basil to your preference.
6. Drain pasta (save 1 cup of pasta water). Add pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. If sauce is too thick, add pasta water a little at a time.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.