Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat the oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes. Add the salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Stir well.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the pan with the sauce.
Add the reserved pasta water and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. The pasta water helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta.
Serve hot, topped with grated cheese and fresh basil if desired.
💡 Pro Tips for Maximum Yum: 🍝 Don't rinse your cooked pasta! The starch helps the sauce cling on for dear life! ❤️🔥 For a richer sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. Just keep an eye on it! 🌿 Got some leftover veggies? Throw them in with the sauce! It's a great way to use them up and add extra goodness! 🌱
