Plain Pasta with Simple American Flavor

Ingredients and Weight:

• 250 grams of dried pasta
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 pound of ground beef or chicken (optional)
• 2 cups of chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce (canned is fine)
• Grated parmesan cheese (as needed for serving)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 2 (Simple to intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook until tender, but still firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil and add the ground meat (if using). Cook until browned and no longer pink.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and basil.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce and mix well. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve in pasta bowls topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information: (Based on estimated values, actual values may vary)

• Calories: Approx. 500 calories per serving (depending on meat content)
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 25g (including meat)
• Fat: 15g (including olive oil)

Dish Characteristics:

• Comfort food with a simple yet rich flavor profile.
• Excellent for those who enjoy traditional American-style pasta dishes.
• Can be customized with different meats or vegetables to suit individual preferences.

User Comments:

1. "Simple yet delicious, just like my grandma used to make!" - John Doe
2. "The perfect balance of flavors, definitely a keeper!" - Jane Smith
3. "Love how easy this dish is to make, yet it tastes so good." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure to cook the pasta to the desired texture, as overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure it meets your desired taste.
• Adding more fresh basil at the end will enhance the flavor even more.
• If using canned tomatoes, choose a good-quality brand for best results.