Bow Tie Pasta Recipe: A Delightful Dish for Any Occasion
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta recipe? Look no further! This bow tie pasta recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's quick, simple, and bursting with flavor. Let's dive into the ingredients and instructions!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust it to your liking. Here’s a suggested ingredient list for a hearty and flavorful bow tie pasta dish:
- 1 pound bow tie pasta (farfalle): The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a healthy and flavorful base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a pungent and savory kick.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Provides a rich tomato base.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor and texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential Italian herb for a vibrant taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp, and creamy element.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): For a beautiful garnish and extra freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
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Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using) and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked sausage, ground beef, chicken, or meatballs to the sauce.
- Veggie Power: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by incorporating vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, or provolone.
This bow tie pasta recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature dish! Enjoy!
