Spaghetti with meat and vegetables

Spaghetti with Meat and Vegetables: A Festive Recipe for the Soul and Taste

On this special day, we celebrate recipe number 100, and I want to share with you a recipe that combines the flavor of meat with the freshness of vegetables, all on a bed of delicious spaghetti. This spaghetti with meat and vegetables recipe is not only a perfect choice for a family dinner but also a great way to celebrate with loved ones. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your constant support, and especially, I want to thank my husband, who is by my side every step of the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g spaghetti
- 500 g pork (stew)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 white onions
- 2 red onions
- 1 green onion
- 1 chili pepper (optional, for a spicy taste)
- 2 large carrots
- 150 g kaiser
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes (or a can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup meat or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Spices: tarragon, rosemary, chili, salt, and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe History:
Spaghetti with meat and vegetables is a recipe rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being a dish that brings together local flavors and ingredients. This combination of pasta, meat, and vegetables has evolved over time into various forms, becoming a versatile dish loved by millions of people worldwide.

But let’s not get lost in stories, let’s get cooking!

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Slice the onions thinly, cut the carrots into rounds, dice the bell pepper, and slice the chili pepper (if you choose to use it). All these will add not only color but also flavor to your dish.

2. Searing the Meat:
In a large skillet, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the cubed pork and sauté for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The meat should become brown and well-cooked.

3. Boiling the Pasta:
While the meat is frying, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes. Make sure they remain al dente, as they will continue to absorb the sauce after you add them.

4. Cooking the Vegetables:
In a separate pot, add oil and heat it up. Add the chopped vegetables: onion, carrots, bell pepper, and diced kaiser. Sauté over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and your preferred spices (tarragon, rosemary, chili, salt, and pepper) and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

5. Combining the Ingredients:
Once the meat is well-seared, add it to the sautéed vegetables. Mix well and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to meld.

6. Creating the Sauce:
Add the tomato paste and broth to the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat until the sauce reduces a bit and becomes more concentrated.

7. Finishing the Dish:
When the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet, gently tossing to coat it in the delicious sauce. Let everything heat together for 2-3 minutes.

8. Serving:
Serve the spaghetti with meat and vegetables immediately, sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can also drizzle some olive oil or grated parmesan on top for an even more intense flavor.

Helpful Tips:
- If you want a lighter version, you can use chicken or turkey instead of pork.
- Experiment with vegetables! You can add zucchini, eggplant, or even mushrooms to diversify the recipe.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a bottle of white or red wine, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat while providing a good portion of fiber and vitamins from the vegetables. Although spaghetti is high in carbohydrates, it can be part of a balanced diet, especially when consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta will add extra nutrients and a more intense flavor.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze portions of spaghetti with meat and vegetables, but it’s better to consume them fresh to enjoy all the flavors.

Thank you for choosing to cook with me! I hope you try this spaghetti with meat and vegetables recipe, and that it becomes one of your favorites, just as it is for me. Enjoy your meal!