Spaghetti Bolognese

Delicious Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe – a quick and tasty dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who can resist a plate of aromatic spaghetti bolognese, with rich sauce and tender meat? This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a night with friends. I will share with you the necessary steps to achieve a perfect result, as well as some useful tips and variations you can explore.

A bit of history: Spaghetti bolognese has become a symbol of Italian cuisine, but the recipe has evolved over time. It is said that the bolognese sauce was originally created as a meat dish but was adapted and improved to pair with spaghetti, quickly becoming a favorite on tables worldwide.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g spaghetti
- 400 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 package of Maggi Idea of the Day – base for spaghetti bolognese
- 400 ml cold water
- Grated Parmesan or cheese, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot, add water and a little salt, then bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This will add a delicious flavor to the sauce.

3. Add the meat: Once the onion is sautéed, add the minced meat. Use a spatula to break it into smaller pieces. Cook the meat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it changes color and is well cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the package of Maggi Idea of the Day with 400 ml of cold water. Mix well to dissolve all the ingredients. Pour the mixture over the cooked meat in the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step is essential to allow the flavors to develop.

5. Drain the spaghetti: Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it using a colander. It is important to rinse the spaghetti with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

6. Combine the ingredients: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet over the meat sauce. Mix well to ensure that each strand of spaghetti is coated with the delicious sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes so that the flavors meld together.

7. Serve with style: Portion the spaghetti onto plates and add grated Parmesan or cheese on top. These cheeses not only add a savory taste but also a creamy texture that enhances the dish.

Useful tips:
- Choose the right meat: A combination of beef and pork brings extra flavor. You can also experiment with other types of meat, like chicken or turkey, for a leaner option.
- Add vegetables: If you want to enrich the sauce, try adding grated carrots or chopped red peppers. These will provide color and additional nutrients.
- The sauce can vary: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of chili powder or a few slices of fresh chili.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta?: Absolutely! Whole grain spaghetti is a healthier option, rich in fiber.
- How can I make the sauce creamier?: Add a little cream or mascarpone cheese to the hot sauce for a creamier taste.
- What can I serve alongside spaghetti?: A fresh green salad or a garlic breadstick are perfect accompaniments to complete the meal.

Nutritional benefits:
This spaghetti bolognese recipe provides a good source of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the pasta, and fiber from the onion. The Parmesan adds calcium and essential vitamins, while the olive oil provides healthy fats.

Estimated calories per serving: 600-700 kcal (depending on the type of meat and amount of cheese used).

Serving variations:
Try serving the spaghetti bolognese with fresh basil or chopped parsley for an extra burst of flavor and freshness. Sometimes, I add a squeeze of lemon before serving to balance the flavors.

This spaghetti bolognese recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a treat for the taste buds. I hope I have inspired you to try it and adapt it to your own taste. Enjoy your meal!