In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will help to sauté the onion and garlic, releasing their flavors into the oil.

Add the finely chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. The crushed tomatoes provide the base of the sauce, while the paste adds richness.

Add the sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Serve over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.