Master The Art Of Cooking Spaghetti With Tomato Sauce In 3 Simple Steps
Spaghetti is cherished for its adaptability and ability to complement a wide range of flavors, making it a staple in both everyday meals and special occasions. Its simple yet satisfying nature has cemented its place in cuisines around the globe.
Here's a classic spaghetti recipe with a rich tomato sauce. It's a staple in Italian cuisine and easy to make.
1. Ingredients
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- Salt (for the pasta water)
- Water (for boiling)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz or 800 g) can crushed tomatoes (or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
2. Instructions
Step 1- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Step 2- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and saut until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 3- Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the pasta is heated through and well coated with sauce.
Step 4- Serve:
- Divide the spaghetti among serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Step 5- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your classic spaghetti with tomato sauce.
3. Tips
- Fresh Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, you can peel them by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then plunging them into ice water.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to add cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added at the end for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy your homemade spaghetti!