Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, pour in the can of crushed tomatoes along with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir the mixture to combine, and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you’d like a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Season the marinara sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re adding a bit of heat. Stir to combine. Taste the sauce and add salt and black pepper as needed. If the sauce is too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance it out and round out the flavors. For a richer depth of flavor, add 1/4 cup of red wine to the sauce and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and leaving behind the robust flavor of the wine.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Toss the pasta gently in the sauce, making sure it is fully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Continue to toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the spaghetti is well-coated with the sauce, transfer it to serving plates. Sprinkle the top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh basil for a touch of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot.
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Skillet or sauté pan (for making the marinara sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Strainer (for draining pasta)
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater (for Parmesan cheese)
- Measuring spoons and cups
Recipe Variations:
- Meat Lover’s Spaghetti:
Add ground beef, Italian sausage, or even meatballs to the marinara sauce for a heartier version. Simply brown the meat in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic, then continue with the rest of the recipe. - Vegetarian Spaghetti:
For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add more vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add a dollop of ricotta cheese to the pasta for an extra creamy texture. - Spicy Spaghetti:
If you love a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving. - Vegan Spaghetti:
To make this dish vegan, use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or skip the cheese entirely. You can also add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream to the sauce for extra creaminess. - Creamy Tomato Spaghetti:
For a creamy twist, stir in some heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the marinara sauce before adding the pasta. This will result in a rich and silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this spaghetti ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the marinara sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.
Q: Can I freeze the sauce?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the marinara sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, defrost the sauce overnight in the fridge or heat it in a pot on the stovetop.
Q: How do I store leftover spaghetti?
A: Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or heat it on the stovetop with a little extra sauce or pasta water to loosen it up.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just blanch and peel them, then chop them into small pieces before adding them to the skillet. You may need to cook the fresh tomatoes for a little longer to break them down into a sauce consistency.
Q: How can I make the pasta more flavorful?
A: Try adding a little garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for an added layer of flavor. You can also season the pasta water with a generous amount of salt to ensure the pasta itself is seasoned well.
Notes:
- Pasta Tips: Always cook your pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce once added. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your spaghetti with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a bowl of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion:
This Delicious Spaghetti recipe is a true Italian classic that will have you savoring every bite. With its simple yet rich marinara sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this spaghetti will never disappoint. By following this simple recipe, you can recreate an authentic Italian dish that’s full of flavor and love in just 30 minutes. So, get your ingredients ready, put on your chef hat, and enjoy a 5-star delicious spaghetti dinner tonight! Buon appetito!
