Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsRicco's Italian Bistro1/2 Pasta Recipe

1/2 Pasta Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Make 1/2 Pasta Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Pasta

Sauce

Garnish

Method

Cooking the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Add Salt

    Once boiling, add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.

  3. 3

    Cook the Pasta

    Add 2 cups of pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

  4. 4

    Drain the Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Preparing the Sauce

  1. 5

    Sauté Garlic

    In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  2. 6

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and add 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.

  3. 7

    Simmer the Sauce

    Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

  1. 8

    Combine the Pasta

    Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

  2. 9

    Heat Through

    Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving

  1. 10

    Garnish and Serve

    Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

More from Ricco's Italian Bistro