Spaghetti Bolognese with sun-dried tomatoes

Spaghetti Bolognese with Sun-Dried Tomatoes – An Italian Delicacy with a Personal Touch

Who doesn't love a plate of aromatic spaghetti bolognese, full of flavor and with an intense taste? This spaghetti bolognese recipe with sun-dried tomatoes adds a touch of originality to your dish, transforming a classic recipe into a memorable culinary experience. Here’s how you can prepare this delight step by step, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 strips of bacon
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 small onion
- 250 grams ground beef (lean, organic)
- 100 ml good quality red wine
- 125 grams sun-dried tomatoes
- 400 grams tomatoes in juice
- 250 grams whole wheat spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 560 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g

Recipe preparation:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature for achieving an even and delicious cooking of the bolognese sauce.

2. Preparing the sauce base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon strips and sauté for 2-3 minutes until crispy. Then, add the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, and rosemary sprig. Sauté them together for 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the flavors combine.

3. Adding the meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until it is lightly browned. This step is essential to intensify the flavor of the sauce.

4. Deglazing with wine: Pour the red wine into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates. This will add depth of flavor to the sauce.

5. Transforming the tomatoes: Use a blender to turn the sun-dried tomatoes into a paste. Add this paste to the skillet along with the tomatoes in juice. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Baking: Transfer the sauce mixture to a suitable baking dish, cover it with a lid, and let it bake for 1 hour. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and add water if necessary to keep the sauce moist and creamy.

7. Cooking the spaghetti: In a separate pot, boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente for perfect texture. Once cooked, drain them, but save a cup of the cooking water.

8. Combining the ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with a handful of grated Parmesan and a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix well, gradually adding some of the reserved water until you achieve the desired consistency of the sauce.

9. Serving: Serve the spaghetti bolognese hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top.

Practical tips:

- Sun-dried tomatoes: These are an excellent choice to intensify the flavor of the sauce. If you can't find them, you can use roasted cherry tomatoes, cut and sautéed in olive oil.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as pork or turkey, for a lighter version. Additionally, adding vegetables like carrots or celery can enhance flavor and nutrients.
- Pasta: If you want to reduce carbohydrates, you can use vegetable or whole grain pasta. These not only provide nutritional benefits but also offer an interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, including gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili flakes to the sauce to intensify its flavor. Adjust the amount according to your preferred level of spiciness.

3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat it and mix it with the pasta before serving.

Serving suggestions:

This recipe for spaghetti bolognese with sun-dried tomatoes pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, a glass of red wine, and a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also accompany this dish with a light dessert, such as a fruit tart or artisanal ice cream, to end the meal on a sweet note.

Personal story:

This recipe reminds me of the evenings spent with family, when we gathered around the table and shared stories while enjoying a plate of spaghetti. This dish is not just a recipe; it is also a way to create memories. So, I encourage you to cook with your heart, enjoy every step, and share these moments with your loved ones.

Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of this culinary delight!