Spaghetti with sauce

Spaghetti with tomato sauce and meat - a simple and delicious recipe

Who doesn't love a steaming bowl of spaghetti with tomato sauce, fragrant and full of flavor? This spaghetti with tomato sauce and meat recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and hearty meal that will bring family and friends together around the table. Over time, spaghetti has become a symbol of gastronomy, combining traditions and simple ingredients to create dishes that delight the taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 g spaghetti
- 300 g ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green), finely chopped
- 1 can of diced tomatoes in juice (or 400 g fresh tomatoes, peeled and diced)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and sauté until it is lightly browned, stirring constantly to cook evenly. This step initiates the flavor development process.

2. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, drizzle a little water into the skillet and cover to steam the meat. After about 2-3 minutes, add the finely chopped onion. Let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the chopped bell pepper and continue to cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

3. Preparing the sauce: After the vegetables are cooked, add the can of diced tomatoes (or the fresh tomatoes). Stir well and let simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. The sauce will develop a rich consistency, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

4. Finalizing the sauce: With 5 minutes left before turning off the heat, add the crushed garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. The garlic will add an intensity and perfectly complement the sauce.

5. Boiling the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and a little oil to prevent the spaghetti from sticking. Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions (usually between 8-10 minutes for al dente spaghetti).

6. Mixing: After the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the tomato and meat sauce. Mix well so that each strand of spaghetti is coated with the sauce. This is the moment when the flavors come together and the magic happens.

Serving

Serve the spaghetti hot, sprinkled with a little grated Parmesan and, if desired, with a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness. This spaghetti with tomato sauce and meat pairs perfectly with a crunchy green salad or a fresh, crusty baguette.

Variations and tips

- Meat variations: If you prefer, you can substitute the pork with beef or chicken. Also, for a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or tofu.
- Adding spices: Experiment with herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to enhance the sauce's flavor.
- Spicier sauce: Add a few chili flakes for a spicier sauce, perfect for lovers of intense flavors.

Nutritional information

This spaghetti with tomato sauce and meat recipe offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. One serving (approximately 300 g) contains about 500 calories. It is a hearty meal that provides the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is an excellent choice for a healthier option, being higher in fiber.

2. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Of course! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it before adding the spaghetti.

3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! This is a meal that is usually enjoyed by children, but make sure to adjust the spices to their preferences.

Personal note

This spaghetti with tomato sauce and meat recipe reminds me of family meals from my childhood. The aroma of freshly cooked sauce and the joy of enjoying a meal together are unforgettable moments. I encourage you to create your own memories around this simple yet characterful recipe. Enjoy your meal!