- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
- Combine Macaroni and Tomato Sauce:
- Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little pasta water or more tomato sauce to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the macaroni and tomatoes hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or plant-based protein to the tomato sauce.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes while cooking the tomato sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables into the sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
This dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy your homemade Macaroni and Tomatoes!