Preparing the Neapolitan Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. Keep the sauce warm while you prepare the pasta.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Combining the Dish
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the Neapolitan sauce over the pasta, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Mozzarella and Basil: Once the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce, gently fold in the torn mozzarella cheese and basil leaves. The heat from the pasta and sauce will begin to melt the cheese, creating a wonderfully creamy texture.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving dishes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Conclusion
Pasta with Neapolitan sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil is a testament to the beauty of Italian cooking, where quality ingredients are allowed to shine through simple preparation. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that are sure to please any palate. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to include other ingredients such as olives, capers, or anchovies for added depth. Serve this comforting pasta dish with a side of crusty bread and a simple salad for a complete, satisfying meal that celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine.