Macaroni and Tomatoes
A quick and satisfying macaroni dish that blends tender pasta with a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce. This fiber-rich, plant-powered recipe delivers a wholesome meal in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights, family dinners, or easy meal prep. Low in saturated fat but full of flavor, it’s a timeless comfort food choice.
Equipment
- 1-Large pot
- 1-Large skillet
- 1-Colander
- 1 cutting board
- 1 chef’s knife
- 1 wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add a generous pinch of salt to season the pasta from the inside out. Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which means tender but still slightly firm in the center. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Once the pasta is ready, drain it well in a colander and set it aside. Avoid rinsing, as the starch on the surface will help the sauce cling better.
- Heat the Oil in Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the vegetable oil. Allow the oil to warm until it shimmers lightly, which should take about 30 seconds. Heating the oil properly before adding ingredients is key for even cooking and flavor release.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly in the hot oil. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the onion softens, becomes translucent, and develops a subtle sweetness. Next, add the minced garlic and stir continuously for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Take care not to let the garlic brown, as this can create bitterness.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Herbs: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices, to create the base of the sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, sugar, and black pepper, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed. The blend of herbs adds depth and warmth, while the sugar helps balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat slightly and bring the tomato mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly, and the flavors of garlic, onion, and herbs will meld beautifully with the tomatoes.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the skillet of simmering tomato sauce. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce, making sure each piece is well coated. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes over low heat so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce’s flavor. Stir frequently to ensure everything is heated evenly and nothing sticks to the bottom of the skillet.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the macaroni and tomato mixture. Adjust with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar if needed. The seasoning should strike a balance between savory, tangy, and subtly sweet.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the dish to a serving bowl or platter. If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm, either as a satisfying side dish or as a simple main meal paired with salad or protein.
Notes
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor — San Marzano or other vine-ripened diced tomatoes work beautifully.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste; a little extra basil or oregano can elevate the flavor.
- For a creamier version, stir in a splash of milk, cream, or shredded cheese just before serving.
- This recipe is highly adaptable — add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and variety.
- To save time, cook pasta while preparing the sauce so everything comes together quickly.
