Neapolitan Spaghetti

Neapolitan Spaghetti – A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

At the heart of Italian cuisine, Neapolitan spaghetti is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the fresh flavors of tomatoes with the smooth texture of spaghetti. This recipe was created from the desire to transform simple ingredients into delicious dishes, serving as a perfect example of how food can bring people together. Let’s dive into the universe of this recipe!

Ingredients

- 1 pack of 500 g spaghetti
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
- 1 can of tomato puree (340 g)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 g homemade bacon, diced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 200 ml reserved pasta cooking water
- 200 g grated cheese

Ingredient Details

- Spaghetti: This is the base of the recipe. Choose a quality brand for better taste. Whole wheat spaghetti can be a healthier option.
- Homemade bacon: This adds a note of flavor and depth, but you can also use bacon or another type of meat, depending on your preferences.
- Tomato puree: Choose a high-quality tomato puree, preferably without additives. Fresh tomatoes can be an excellent alternative!
- Granulated garlic: This provides an intense flavor, but if you prefer a fresher aroma, use crushed fresh garlic.

Step by Step

1. Start by preparing the onion. In a large skillet, add the finely chopped onion with a tablespoon of water and a little olive oil. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential for creating a rich flavor base in our sauce.

2. Once the onion is ready, add the can of tomato puree and the tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to combine and intensify.

3. Meanwhile, add the spaghetti to boiling water with a little salt and oil. Cook according to the package instructions (about 10 minutes) until al dente. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. After the spaghetti is cooked, drain it well, reserving about 200 ml of the cooking water. This liquid will add creaminess to the sauce.

5. In another skillet, add the homemade bacon and lightly brown it until crispy. This will add a pleasant texture and savory flavor to the dish.

6. Combine the bacon with the tomato and onion mixture, then add the reserved 200 ml of cooking water. Bring to a boil, then add the granulated garlic and salt. Mix well.

7. Finally, add the hot spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and mix well to coat evenly. As a final step, sprinkle the grated cheese on top and mix again.

Serving

Neapolitan spaghetti is served hot, straight from the skillet, to preserve the intense aroma. Drizzle with a splash of extra virgin olive oil on top and, if desired, add a few fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness. This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of dry red wine or fresh lemonade.

Personalized Variant

To add a touch of originality, try replacing the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also add fresh vegetables, such as red bell peppers or zucchini, for added color and nutrition.

Nutritional Benefits

This Neapolitan spaghetti recipe is not only delicious but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and onions contain flavonoids that help protect the heart. Homemade bacon, while a source of protein, should be consumed in moderation due to its fat content. Cheese adds calcium and protein, making it an excellent choice for a balanced lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a healthy alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the tomato mixture to give it a spicy kick.

3. Can I replace the bacon with another type of meat?
Of course! You can use bacon, sausage, or even cooked chicken.

4. What other recipes can I try with the leftover tomato sauce?
The tomato sauce can also be used for pizza, lasagna, or even as a base for delicious soups.

5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
By replacing the bacon with vegetables or tofu, the recipe becomes completely vegetarian.

So, get ready to enjoy a serving of Neapolitan spaghetti, a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring joy to every meal. Be creative in the kitchen and don’t hesitate to adapt the recipe to your preferences. Enjoy your meal!