A Simple Yet Delicious Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe

This recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful macaroni and tomatoes dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch. We'll focus on maximizing flavor with minimal ingredients and steps, ensuring this recipe is both accessible and delicious. This guide also incorporates SEO best practices to help you find this recipe easily online.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to prepare. You'll need:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
• 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes (look for high-quality options for better flavor)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic!
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

While the sauce simmers, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Be sure to cook it al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the saucepan with the tomato sauce.
2. Stir gently to combine the pasta and sauce thoroughly.
3. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using).

Tips for the Best Macaroni and Tomatoes:

• Use good quality tomatoes: The flavor of the crushed tomatoes significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Look for brands known for their flavor.
• Don't overcook the pasta: Follow the package directions closely, and aim for al dente pasta.
• Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to suit your preferences.
• Add some heat: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Get creative with additions: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Adding a sprinkle of sugar can also balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

SEO Keywords & Optimization:

This recipe is optimized for keywords like: macaroni and tomatoes recipe, easy macaroni and tomatoes, simple macaroni and tomato recipe, tomato pasta recipe, quick macaroni recipe, weeknight dinner ideas, and easy tomato sauce recipe. These keywords are naturally integrated into the text, enhancing search engine optimization.

Boosting Your Recipe's Online Visibility:

To further enhance the visibility of your recipe online, consider sharing it on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. High-quality photos are key! Use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience. Engaging with comments and questions on your post also helps increase its visibility organically. Remember, consistently creating and sharing high-quality content is crucial for long-term success in the digital space.