Spaghetti with tomato sauce

Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce and Sausage: A Classic Recipe, Bursting with Flavor and Aroma

If you're looking for a simple and delicious recipe, spaghetti with tomato sauce and a few basic ingredients is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also brings a touch of comfort on busy days. Spaghetti with tomato sauce is a versatile dish that combines classic flavors with a pleasant texture, ideal for any family meal or a dinner with friends.

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

Ingredients

- 1 pack of spaghetti (about 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 small onion, grated
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml water
- 1 sausage (preferably smoked or fresh)
- Fresh or dried basil, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 boiled egg (optional, for decoration)
- Dried parsley leaves, for decoration

Preparing the Spaghetti

1. Boiling the Spaghetti: Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of oil to prevent the spaghetti from sticking. Once the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente.

2. Preparing the Sauce: Meanwhile, in a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is crucial as the sautéed onion will add depth to your sauce's flavor.

3. Adding the Ingredients: Once the onion has softened, add the tomato paste and 100 ml of water. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Incorporating the Sausage: Meanwhile, slice the sausage thinly. Add it to the tomato sauce along with the spices - basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes for the flavors to meld. If you like a spicier taste, you can also add a dash of chili pepper.

5. Finishing the Spaghetti: When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and quickly rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This simple trick will help maintain the perfect texture of the spaghetti.

6. Serving: Place the spaghetti on plates, generously add the sauce on top, and if desired, cut a boiled egg in half and place it alongside. Sprinkle dried parsley leaves for an attractive appearance and an extra flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Sausage: Opt for a quality sausage, whether smoked or fresh, to add a rich flavor to the sauce. You can experiment with different types of sausages, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, to give a unique twist to the recipe.

- Vegetarian Option: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the sausage with mushrooms or seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, which will also add a pleasant texture.

- Flavors: Play with flavors! Add oregano or marjoram to change the aromatic profile of the sauce.

Nutritional Information

This spaghetti with tomato sauce and sausage recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving on average. It is a balanced meal, providing carbohydrates from the spaghetti, protein from the sausage, and healthy fats from the butter. Additionally, the tomato sauce brings a good supply of vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice to add more fiber and nutrients.

- How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili flakes or a spicy tomato-based sauce for an extra kick.

- What can I serve alongside the spaghetti?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread are perfect accompaniments to complete the meal.

Serving Recommendations

Spaghetti with tomato sauce and sausage is delicious served hot, alongside a glass of red wine or a cold lemonade. You can also top it with grated cheese for a creamier taste.

This spaghetti with tomato sauce is not just a simple dish, but a true culinary experience that will transport you to a world of enticing flavors and gastronomic comfort. So, gather the necessary ingredients and enjoy this easy-to-make yet flavorful recipe!