Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce Recipe is a dish that brings comfort and simplicity to your kitchen. Imagine a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug! The combination of perfectly cooked pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a lovely egg on top creates a beautiful and satisfying meal. The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Let’s get into this delicious homemade recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
What is Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce?
Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce is a classic dish that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in a delightful way. When you think about pasta, it often feels heavy and rich. But when you add a sunny-side-up egg to the mix, everything changes. The egg’s creamy yolk mingles with luscious tomato sauce, giving you an enticing flavorsome experience in every bite.
Traditionally, eggs were often used in Italian cooking to add protein and richness, making this dish not just tasty but also filling and nutritious. This recipe is inspired by those traditional roots and adapted for today’s busy lifestyles.
Ingredients for Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
You won’t need an endless list of ingredients to whip up this scrumptious meal. Here’s what you will gather:
Main Ingredients
- Pasta (about 200 grams or 7 ounces): Spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta shape you prefer.
- Canned tomatoes (400 grams or 14 ounces): Diced or crushed for a smooth sauce.
- Eggs (2 per serving): Fresh eggs bring creaminess and flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves): For that aromatic essence.
- Onion (1 medium): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Basil or parsley: Fresh or dried, for a fragrant finish.
Optional Add-Ins
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for a cheesy touch.
- Red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a little heat.
- Vegetables: Spinach or bell peppers could be a great addition.
How to Make Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
Creating Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce is super fun and doesn’t take too long. Follow along with these easy steps:
Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt!
- Add Pasta: Once the water is boiling, toss in your pasta. Follow package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8 to 10 minutes.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before you drain it, save about a cup of pasta water. It will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Drain: Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Canned Tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go. If you want, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for heat. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and flavors to meld.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix in Pasta: Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked pasta back into the skillet. Toss to combine everything evenly.
- Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to get it to your desired consistency.
Cook the Eggs
- Cook Eggs Sunny-Side Up: In a separate non-stick skillet, add a splash of olive oil and heat it over medium-low heat. Crack your eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set, and the yolks are still runny. This usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes.
- Season: Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on the eggs.
Plate and Serve
- Serve the Pasta: Divide the pasta among the plates.
- Top with Egg: Place one cooked egg on top of each serving of pasta.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley and consider grating parmesan on top if you enjoy cheese!
And just like that, your beautiful Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce Recipe is ready to enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
To make your dish even better, check out these handy tips:
- Use Good Quality Tomatoes: Your sauce will shine with high-quality canned tomatoes. Look for San Marzano tomatoes if you can find them.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: Fresh basil or parsley can really elevate your dish!
- Don’t Rush the Eggs: Cooking the eggs at a lower temperature helps ensure you get that lovely, runny yolk without overcooking the whites.
How to Serve Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
Serve your Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce warm, right from the stove. Enjoy it as an easy weeknight dinner, or even as a delightful brunch option! Here are some ideas for serving:
- Side Salad: Pair with a light side salad for extra freshness.
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread, perfect for dipping in leftover sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A nice white wine can enhance the meal if you feel like treating yourself!
Storage Tips for Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
If you have leftovers (which is a win!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Allow the pasta to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Properly: When you reheat, add a splash of water to revive the sauce’s consistency. Gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Variations of Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
While the classic version is fantastic, sometimes you might want to switch things up a bit. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Vegetarian Version: Load up with vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers, sautéing them with the onions and garlic.
- Pasta Primavera: Add seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes and asparagus directly into the sauce for a colorful twist.
- Spicy Arrabbiata: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Creating different variations keeps this dish exciting and allows you to cater to different tastes!
Nutritional Benefits of Pasta with Egg and Tomato Sauce
Not only is this dish delicious, but it brings nutritional benefits as well:
Eggs
- Protein: Eggs are packed with protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins: They also contain vitamins A, D, and B12, which are essential for overall health.
Tomatoes
- Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to many health benefits.
- Vitamins: They provide a good dose of vitamins C and K.
Pasta
- Energy: Pasta is a source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your day.
- Fiber: Opt for whole-grain pasta for added fiber, which aids digestion.