Stars with tomato paste

Delicious star-shaped pasta recipe with red sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Do you want a quick meal, full of flavor and easy to prepare? I invite you to discover our recipe for star-shaped pasta with red sauce! This pasta is not only attractive due to its shape but also extremely tasty, making it ideal for a weekend dinner or to impress your guests. I will guide you step by step through this culinary process, providing you with useful tips and small tricks to achieve a perfect result.

A brief history of the recipe
Pasta has a rich and diverse history, being a staple ingredient in kitchens around the world. The star shape adds a playful and familiar element, suitable for all ages. The red sauce, on the other hand, is a classic accompaniment that transforms any meal into an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Necessary ingredients
- 50 g star-shaped pasta
- 500 ml water for boiling pasta
- Half a teaspoon of salt (for boiling pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 100 ml water
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste

Preparation steps

1. Boiling the pasta: Start by placing 500 ml of water and salt in a small pot over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, add the star-shaped pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 7-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, turn off the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavor of the water.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a pan, add olive oil and sauté the peeled and finely chopped garlic cloves over medium heat. The garlic will release an inviting aroma, so do not leave it on high heat to avoid burning. When it turns golden, add the tomato paste and mix well.

3. Adding the ingredients: Pour 100 ml of water into the pan, add oregano, basil, black pepper, bay leaf, and sugar. The sugar will balance the acidity of the tomatoes in the tomato paste, bringing a more balanced flavor. Simmer the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the water reduces and the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Finalizing the dish: Once the sauce is ready, remove the garlic and bay leaf. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan. Mix well to combine the pasta with the sauce, leaving everything on the heat for 1-2 minutes so that the flavors integrate perfectly.

5. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, directly from the pan, sprinkled with a little grated parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. This detail will add extra flavor and an elegant touch to your dish.

Practical tips
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some finely chopped black or green olives to the sauce.
- If you like spicy flavors, feel free to add some chili flakes to the tomato sauce.
- Instead of star-shaped pasta, you can use any other type of pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or penne, but cooking time may vary.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a slice of garlic toasted bread.

Nutritional benefits
Star-shaped pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy, while the tomato sauce, rich in lycopene, has antioxidant properties that benefit heart health. Garlic is known for its antiseptic and immune-boosting effects.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Of course! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option and rich in fiber.
- What can I do if I don't have tomato paste? You can use fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes, pureed.
- How can I store leftovers? Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little water to prevent drying out.

Whether you're preparing this recipe for yourself or your loved ones, it's a wonderful choice that will bring smiles to the table! Enjoy every bite and indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience!

 Ingredients: 50 g star-shaped pasta + 500 ml water for boiling + a little salt; two tablespoons of olive oil; 6 cloves of garlic; one tablespoon of tomato paste; 100 ml water; dried oregano; dried basil; a little black pepper; one bay leaf; one teaspoon of sugar; salt to taste.

 Tags:  tomato paste stars