Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Spaghetti al Pomodoro: Italian Indulgence with Basil Flavor

Total Time: 60 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Spaghetti al Pomodoro is a classic of Italian cuisine, a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. This recipe perfectly combines the taste of fresh tomatoes with the intense aroma of basil and the silky texture of the pasta. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!

### Ingredients

- 400 g spaghetti
- 400 g tomatoes (preferably fresh, but canned tomatoes work well too)
- 100 g parmesan (freshly grated for a more intense flavor)
- 50 g onion (finely chopped)
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic (minced)
- A bunch of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the sauce: Start by sautéing the onion in a medium pot over low heat, adding 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir constantly to avoid burning the onion until it becomes golden and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential as caramelized onions will add a natural sweetness to the sauce.

2. Adding the tomatoes: While the onion is sautéing, prepare the tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, cut them into large cubes. If you choose canned tomatoes, ensure they have a good texture. Place the tomatoes along with the minced garlic and a few basil leaves in a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. Add the mixture to the pot with the onion.

3. Cooking the sauce: Simmer the sauce over low heat for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking. A helpful tip: you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.

4. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt (about a tablespoon) and spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it well.

5. Combining pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta to the pot with the tomato sauce and mix well, ensuring each piece of spaghetti is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a few tablespoons of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Serving: Serve spaghetti al pomodoro hot, generously sprinkled with grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch. A personal note: drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for an extra flavor boost!

### Practical Tips

- You can use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter and more vibrant sauce.
- For a spicy version, add chili flakes to the tomato sauce.
- Substitute parmesan with vegan cheese for a lactose-free option.
- If you enjoy a crunchy texture, you can add toasted bread croutons on top.

Spaghetti al Pomodoro is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable culinary experience. Cook with love, and the result will be rewarding!