Ingredients
Creating this delightful dish requires a handful of ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting its rich tapestry of flavors. You’ll need:
– 250 grams of your favorite pasta (I often reach for penne or fusilli, but any shape will do)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of tomatoes (about 400 grams)
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– A pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– And, if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cinnamon to tie it all together
These simple components come together to create something far greater than the sum of their parts, much like the patchwork quilts my grandmother used to sew, each piece adding to the story.
Instructions
1. Begin with a large pot — it should feel like an old friend, reliable and well-used. Heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Cook until it’s translucent, stirring occasionally, much like my mum would stir her stews, with a gentle patience.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting its aroma fill the kitchen.
3. Pour in the can of tomatoes, breaking them up with a wooden spoon (I always imagine my mum’s well-worn spoon, stained with years of culinary adventures). Add the oregano and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the pasta and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cover the pot and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente — about 10-12 minutes.
6. Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. If you’re feeling daring, add that pinch of cinnamon — it’s like a secret handshake between flavors.
7. Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a little more fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International