The Easiest Angel Hair Pasta with Marinara Sauce Recipe

When life gets busy, and you need something both comforting and quick, there’s nothing like a plate of angel hair pasta with homemade marinara sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-flavorful. Whether you’ve had it in an Italian restaurant or you’re looking for a no-stress dinner idea, this easy recipe is perfect for you. And the best part? It’s ready in less than 30 minutes!

Time and Servings:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 people

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan for the sauce
• Colander or strainer for draining pasta
• Cutting board and knife for garlic and basil
• Garlic press (optional, but handy!)
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

How to Make Angel Hair Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Start the Marinara Sauce

Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be cautious not to let it burn—burnt garlic can ruin the sauce.

Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and sugar (if using) into the pan. Stir everything together, and let it simmer gently on low heat for 15-20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors develop, so be patient! Stir occasionally, tasting as you go, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the angel hair pasta, stirring immediately to prevent clumping. Cook for just 2-4 minutes—angel hair cooks quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it! Drain the pasta (don’t rinse it, as you want the starch to help the sauce stick).

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Marinara Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly into the skillet with the marinara sauce. Toss it well to coat every strand of pasta with the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you can serve the pasta in bowls and spoon the sauce over the top. The first option, though, really allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta immediately with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil will also add an extra layer of richness. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for the perfect meal.

Recipe Notes:

• Make it Your Own: Feel free to add onions to the sauce for extra depth, or toss in some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. This helps create a smoother sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh basil adds more vibrant flavor, but dried herbs are still great and more convenient.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

• Watch the pasta closely: Angel hair cooks incredibly fast, so keep an eye on it. If you overcook it, it can turn mushy, so check it early and often.
• Simmer the sauce longer for a deeper flavor: While 15-20 minutes is fine, you can simmer it longer if you want even more flavor. Just make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
• Add a touch of sugar to balance the acidity: Some tomatoes can be quite acidic. Adding a pinch of sugar helps mellow that out, giving the sauce a smoother, richer taste.

How to Serve:

Serve in warm bowls with Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for that restaurant-quality touch. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a green salad.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or saucepan for the sauce
• Strainer for draining pasta
• Cutting board and knife for prep

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The pasta will soak up more sauce over time, so you may need to add a splash of water when reheating.
• Freezing: Marinara sauce freezes well for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

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Health Benefits:

This dish isn’t just tasty, it’s also packed with health benefits! The tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene, great for heart health. Olive oil brings in heart-healthy fats, and the pasta gives you a nice dose of carbohydrates for energy. Together, it’s a wholesome meal that’s comforting and good for you.

FAQs:

1. Why is my angel hair pasta getting sticky?

Angel hair can become sticky if you don’t stir it immediately after adding it to boiling water. Also, avoid rinsing the pasta, as it washes away the starch that helps the sauce stick.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Of course! This marinara sauce pairs well with all types of pasta. You can use spaghetti, penne, or even fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. Should I use fresh or canned tomatoes?

You can use either! Canned tomatoes work well for convenience and depth of flavor. If using fresh tomatoes, be sure to blanch them first and remove the skins for a smoother sauce.

4. Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative. The marinara sauce is already vegan-friendly.

5. Can I make the marinara sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The marinara sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts:

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of angel hair pasta with marinara sauce. It’s a simple dish, but when done right, it’s pure magic. Perfect for any night of the week, whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family. With a few key ingredients and some patience, you can create a meal that’s both quick and flavorful. Enjoy every bite!