Neapolitan Spaghetti

Neapolitan Spaghetti – A Symphony of Flavors on a Plate

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today we will prepare a classic Italian dish, Neapolitan Spaghetti, which combines the fresh flavors of tomatoes with the richness of homemade bacon and the unmistakable taste of grated cheese. This recipe is simple, quick, yet full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. Let’s get started!

Recipe History
Neapolitan Spaghetti is a dish with deep roots in culinary tradition, based on simple yet delicious ingredients available in every household. This dish reflects the essence of Italian cuisine: quick meals with fresh ingredients and an emphasis on taste. Over the years, the recipe has evolved but has always maintained its rustic and authentic character.

Ingredients
- 500 g spaghetti
- 1/2 onion (about 75 g)
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
- 1 can of tomato puree (340 g)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 g homemade bacon (or bacon, if you prefer)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 200 ml spaghetti water (approximately)
- 200 g grated cheese

Useful Tips about Ingredients
- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti, preferably made from durum wheat, for perfect texture.
- Homemade bacon: If you don't have homemade bacon, you can use bacon or prosciutto. These add extra flavor.
- Tomato puree: Opt for a good quality can of tomatoes without additives. Natural tomatoes will make a difference in the sauce.
- Cheese: Choose a mature cheese that melts well and offers an intense flavor.

Preparation Technique
1. Making the sauce
Start by finely chopping the onion. In a large skillet, add a little water and a splash of olive oil, then add the chopped onion. Let it sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it becomes translucent and aromatic. This is the base of our sauce – an essential step to bring the flavors to life.

2. Adding the tomatoes
Once the onion is ready, add the tomato puree and tomato paste. Mix well to combine the ingredients and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is the moment to let your imagination run wild; you can add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.

3. Boiling the spaghetti
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and a little oil to prevent the spaghetti from sticking. Add the spaghetti and let it boil according to the package instructions, usually about 10 minutes, until al dente. Don't forget to stir occasionally!

4. Preparing the bacon
In another skillet, add the homemade bacon cut into small cubes. Sauté over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden. Its aroma will infuse the tomato sauce with delicious flavor.

5. Combining the ingredients
Once the spaghetti is cooked, remove it from the water, but keep about 200 ml of the cooking water. Add the sautéed bacon to the tomato sauce, mix well, and add the 200 ml of spaghetti water to thin the sauce if necessary. Let it come to a boil and add the granulated garlic and salt, adjusting the taste as desired.

6. Mixing
After the sauce has boiled, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the flavors, allowing each strand of pasta to absorb the delicious sauce.

7. Finishing
Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese over the hot spaghetti and gently mix until it melts and integrates into the dish. I guarantee the aroma will be absolutely irresistible!

Serving
Neapolitan Spaghetti is served immediately, hot. You can add a few fresh basil leaves on top for a vibrant look and fresh taste. This recipe pairs perfectly with a crunchy green salad and a glass of red wine to complete the culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy choice and will add a slightly different but delicious taste.

- How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you want a spicier sauce, add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce during cooking.

- Can I freeze Neapolitan Spaghetti?
While it is recommended to consume the dish fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately. The pasta may dry out and become sticky after thawing.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which contributes to heart health. Homemade bacon provides necessary proteins, while cheese offers calcium and vitamins. A balanced and flavorful dish!

A Personal Note
I remember when I first cooked Neapolitan Spaghetti for my friends. It was a cool autumn evening, and the aroma of the tomato sauce and crispy bacon filled the entire house. It was an instant hit, and since then, this recipe has become a favorite in our group. I encourage you to experiment and add your favorite ingredients!

In conclusion, Neapolitan Spaghetti is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together culinary tradition and simplicity. It is ideal for any occasion and will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Choose your ingredients carefully, follow the steps attentively, and get ready to enjoy a truly special dish!