Oregano Infused Spaghetti Sauce

Ingredients

• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated)
• Fresh basil (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon (optional))
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground)
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste)
• Sugar (1 teaspoon)
• Dried oregano (1 tablespoon)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Canned crushed tomatoes (1 can (28 ounces))
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its aroma, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, sugar, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
4. Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom.
5. After 20 minutes, remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the freshly chopped basil for an added aromatic touch.
6. Serve this delectable oregano-infused spaghetti sauce over your favorite cooked spaghetti noodles.
7. Just before serving, garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic Italian touch.