This pasta recipe is a delightful dish that brings the family together at the dinner table. It's simple to prepare and packs a punch in flavour, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights. With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a hearty meal without the fuss.
Ingredients You'll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this pasta dish a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil - for sautéing
- 1 onion - finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic - minced
- 1 carrot - diced
- 1 bell pepper - diced
- 2 sticks of celery - diced
- 450 g minced meat - beef or your choice
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- Italian herbs - to taste
- 200 ml canned tomatoes - crushed or diced
- 250 g pasta - any type you prefer
- Fresh parsley - for garnish
Preparation Steps
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pasta dish that everyone will love:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about one minute until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the Remaining Vegetables
Next, introduce the diced carrot, bell pepper, and celery into the skillet. Fry these vegetables together for approximately two minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they don’t stick to the pan.
3. Brown the Minced Meat
Once the vegetables are tender, it's time to add the minced meat. Cook this mixture for about four minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks. Ensure that it is browned evenly.
4. Season the Mixture
Season the meat and vegetable mixture with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavours.
5. Add the Canned Tomatoes
Pour in the canned tomatoes and stir. Cover the skillet and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld together beautifully, creating a rich sauce.
6. Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta.
7. Combine and Serve
Finally, combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of colour and flavour.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience and the final dish:
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
- Meat Choices: You can substitute minced beef with chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavour. Consider adding basil or oregano for a fragrant touch.
- Cheese Lovers: Top your pasta with grated Parmesan or mozzarella for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Garlic bread - perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Mixed green salad - a fresh and light accompaniment.
- Steamed vegetables - for a wholesome addition to your meal.
Conclusion
This simple pasta recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also a meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavours, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. Enjoy cooking and even more, enjoy the delightful meal with your loved ones!
Did you try this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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