Masala Tomato Pasta

Ingredients

• 200 g spaghetti
• 2 large ripe tomatoes
• 1/2 cup yellow onion
• 2 pieces garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp red chili flakes(optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Boil a pot of salted water, add the spaghetti and cook al dente according to package directions (about 9‑10 minutes); drain, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté 3‑4 minutes until translucent.

3. 3

   Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and optional chili flakes; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt; simmer 5‑6 minutes, crushing the tomatoes with a spoon, until the sauce thickens.

5. 5

   Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat evenly; season with black pepper and more salt if desired.

6. 6

   Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.