She Strengthens

Savor the Simplicity of a Classic Pasta Sauce

When it comes to pasta sauces, simplicity can be a powerful thing. This recipe, inspired by Marcela Hazan’s go-to sauce, proves that sometimes less is more. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a rich and satisfying sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

The Magic of Butter, Onion, and Tomatoes

The key to this sauce lies in the combination of butter, onion, and tomatoes. These humble ingredients come together to create a flavorful and aromatic sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make.

A Recipe for Relaxation

This recipe is designed to be low-maintenance, with minimal stirring and no complicated techniques. Simply add the ingredients to a pot, let them simmer, and enjoy the results. With a total cooking time of just 1 hour, you can have a delicious homemade pasta sauce on the table in no time.

The Essential Ingredients

• 3 cups canned whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzanos) with their juice
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for the pasta water
• 1 pound dried rigatoni pasta
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for serving

Let the Simmering Begin

Add the tomatoes, onion, butter, and salt to a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. When the mixture starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer slowly. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching, but otherwise, let the sauce do its thing.

Cooking the Pasta

About 15 minutes before the sauce is done, start cooking the rigatoni according to the package directions. Reserve 3/4 cup of the cooking water and drain the pasta. Set it aside, along with the reserved cooking water.

Bringing it All Together

Transfer the sauce to the pasta pot, add the cooked rigatoni and Parmigiano-Reggiano, and stir to combine. If the pasta looks dry, add some of the reserved cooking water. Serve in warmed bowls, topped with additional Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

This recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity in cooking. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a pasta sauce that’s both delicious and satisfying. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the flavor of simplicity.