Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce – A Classic Recipe Born from Love for Pasta

Who doesn’t love pasta? These culinary gems are not only filling but also incredibly versatile. In this recipe, we will explore how to prepare delicious spaghetti with tomato sauce, a dish that brings together the simplest ingredients to create a rich and comforting flavor. Even though it is a classic recipe, everyone can add their personal touch, and I will share some tips for a perfect result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g spaghetti
- 200 g fresh tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 medium onion
- 1 small bell pepper
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- A few sprigs of fresh basil
- 1 stalk of celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

The Story Behind the Recipe

Spaghetti with tomato sauce has deep roots in culinary history, being a symbol of simple yet flavorful cooking. This pasta is often associated with moments spent with loved ones, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Preparing it can become a ritual, an opportunity to connect with the ingredients and experiment with flavors.

Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes

We start by preparing the tomatoes. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the fresh tomatoes and let them boil for 30 seconds. This technique, known as blanching, will make the skins of the tomatoes peel off easily. Remove the tomatoes with a strainer and transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. After 5 minutes, drain them well.

Practical Tips: Choose ripe tomatoes that have a vibrant color and intense flavor. Roma or San Marzano tomatoes are excellent for sauces due to their dense flesh and low seed content.

Step 2: Boiling the Pasta

In another pot, add 3 liters of water and a teaspoon of salt. When the water is boiling, add the whole spaghetti, making sure they are well separated. Let them boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 11 minutes, until they are al dente.

Step 3: Preparing the Tomato Sauce

In a saucepan, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic. Cook them over low heat, stirring constantly, until they soften but do not brown. This step is crucial for developing a rich base flavor.

Then, add the diced bell pepper and celery stalk. If you prefer, you can chop the celery finely, but leaving it whole will add a subtle flavor. Let the vegetables simmer together for 2-3 minutes, then add a ladle of water and salt.

Step 4: Transforming the Tomatoes into Sauce

The prepared tomatoes can now be chopped. If you prefer a smooth sauce, use a blender; if you want larger pieces, chop them with a knife. Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan, along with the tomato paste and a few chopped basil leaves. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice the sauce becoming too thick, add a little pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Finishing the Dish

When the pasta is ready, drain it and reserve a few tablespoons of the cooking water. Place the pasta in the saucepan with the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to combine well. Gently toss so that the sauce coats each strand of spaghetti.

Step 6: Serving

To serve, use a fork or a ladle to twist the pasta onto the plate. Generously cover with tomato sauce and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. Add a little chopped fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Variation Suggestions: You can experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to add a personal touch to the sauce. Additionally, adding black olives or anchovies can provide a more intense flavor. If you want a vegetarian version, add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, canned tomatoes are an excellent alternative, especially out of season. Choose whole or diced tomatoes without additives.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

3. What type of pasta can I use? If you want to experiment, try penne or fusilli. These pasta types hold the sauce better due to their shape.

Nutritional Benefits:

This spaghetti with tomato sauce recipe provides a good source of complex carbohydrates from the pasta, fiber from the vegetables, and antioxidants from the tomatoes, which are beneficial for heart health. Extra virgin olive oil adds healthy fats, and Parmesan cheese contributes protein.

Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of cheese used and the oil added.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start preparing this delicious spaghetti! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen, turning each meal into a celebration. Bon appétit!