1- Cook the pasta:
– In a large pot, boil water with a tablespoon of salt, then add the pasta.
– Cook it according to the time on the package (usually 8–10 minutes).
– Drain it and reserve one cup of the pasta water.
2- Prepare the red sauce:
– In a skillet, heat the olive oil.
– Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
– Add the garlic and stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
– Add the grated tomatoes and tomato paste.
– Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and basil or oregano.
– Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until it thickens.
3- Mix pasta with the sauce:
– Add the cooked pasta to the sauce.
– If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
– Stir on low heat for 2 minutes until well combined.
4- Serve hot:
– Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, or serve with garlic toast.