Add 12 oz dried pasta to the boiling water, stir to prevent sticking, and cook uncovered according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–12 minutes depending on pasta shape). Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.

Butter Sauce (choose if making buttered pasta)

Melt butter

While the pasta cooks, place a large skillet over medium heat and add 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Let it melt, watching carefully to prevent browning.

Sauté garlic (optional)

If using garlic, add 1 minced clove to the melted butter and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the butter. Toss to coat, adding up to 1/4 to 1/2 cup (60–120 ml) reserved pasta cooking water as needed to loosen and create a silky sauce.

Finish and season

Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 oz grated Parmesan, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Tomato Sauce (choose if making tomato pasta)

Start the soffritto

In a medium skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 small finely chopped onion and sauté 4–6 minutes until soft and translucent.

Add garlic

Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, stirring so the garlic does not brown.

Add tomatoes and seasonings

Stir in 14 oz crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried or fresh basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar (if using). Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if you want heat.

Simmer

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta cooking water a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.

Finish and serve

Remove from heat and stir in a small drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter if desired for extra silkiness. Serve topped with 1 oz grated Parmesan and fresh basil if available.