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Ingredients
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Pasta
Sauce
Garnish
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Boil Water
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
Sauce Preparation
- 4
Heat Olive Oil
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- 5
Sauté Garlic
Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 6
Simmer Sauce
Stir in canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 7
Add Basil
Add chopped fresh basil and stir to combine, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- 8
Adjust Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Combine and Serve
- 9
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss well to combine.
- 10
Add Parmesan
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.
- 11
Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and Parmesan cheese as desired.