Quick & Easy: Tomato Pasta – Not A Jar In Sight

I can’t remember when I first made this pasta. I think it was over ten years ago, on a day I was craving tomato pasta but didn’t have any jars of pasta sauce at home. I used whatever I had at home and came up with this recipe, and have never looked back. It’s a big hit with children and adults alike, and is my go-to for play dates, or as a side dish when we have guests over. When I’m pressed for time, I know I can make this and my boys will eat it with minimum fuss or mess. The best thing about it is how quick and easy it really is, I make it at least once a week. I have been asked for the recipe a few times (once today, in fact!) so I thought I would share it with you all.

Preparation and Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes             Serves: 4

Ingredients

350g of pasta (I use penne but you can use whichever you like)
400g of tinned chopped tomatoes (or 4/5 fresh tomatoes)
3 cloves of garlic, finely sliced or grated
1-2 onions (75g), diced
2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil (plus a splash for the pasta)
1 teaspoon salt (plus a pinch for the salt)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon powder
1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
Fresh coriander (cilantro), to serve

Method

1. Put the oil in a pan, on medium heat, add the garlic and onions, and saute for a minute or two.
2. In a separate pot, place the pasta in boiling water (with a splash of oil and a pinch of salt), and boil for ten minutes (stirring regularly so it doesn’t stick).
3. In the pan with the garlic and onions, add the tomatoes, salt, cumin, cinnamon, and pepper, and bring to the boil.

4. Reduce the heat and simmer the tomato sauce for a few minutes.
5. Strain the pasta and add it to the pan with the sauce. Add the mixed herbs. Stir well.

6. Add the coriander (cilantro) before serving. Enjoy!

I don’t usually measure anything so have tried to quantify for you as best as I could. When I have more time, and depending on who I’m making for, I add bell peppers, chicken, mushrooms, chilli, cheese etc. For example, I’ll use linguine  pasta and add chilli flakes and prawns for the perfect Shrimp Fra Diavolo.

I have lots of ‘Quick & Easy’ recipes to share (what can I say, I’m a lazy girl), and will be posting them in the near future. Let me know if you try this recipe and any amendments you make. Do you have your own pasta sauce recipe, or go-to simple dish? I would love to hear them all!

Ciao for now,

Latifa xx