Spaghetti with tomatoes and basil

Spaghetti with Tomatoes and Basil: A Classic Recipe Full of Flavors and Stories

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Who hasn't fallen in love with the simple and fresh flavors of a plate of spaghetti with tomatoes and basil? This classic recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings a touch of sunshine to your plate. The origins of this recipe are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, cherished for its simplicity and natural ingredients. It is perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti (or 100g per serving, but feel free to add a little more if you like)
- 300g cherry tomatoes (or 2 large, ripe tomatoes)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 10 fresh basil leaves (reserving 2 for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (or more, to taste)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare your ingredients
Start by gathering all necessary ingredients. Choose the spaghetti according to your preferences, but durum wheat pasta is recommended for perfect texture. Cherry tomatoes are ideal due to their natural sweetness, but you can also use high-quality large tomatoes. Extra virgin olive oil is essential for adding a rich flavor to the dish.

2. Boil water for pasta
Bring a pot of one liter of water to a boil for every 100g of spaghetti. Add about a teaspoon of salt to the water to flavor the pasta.

3. Flavoring the oil
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

4. Preparing the tomato sauce
Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Add them to the skillet with the sautéed garlic, mixing everything well. Cook the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Cooking the spaghetti
Once the water in the pot has started to boil, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-12 minutes) until al dente.

6. Combining the ingredients
Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes. Gently mix everything together, allowing the flavors to combine for 1 minute over heat.

7. Serving
Divide the spaghetti onto plates and sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top. Garnish with the reserved basil leaves. This detail not only adds a pleasant visual aspect but also intensifies the dish's aroma.

Useful Tips
- You can add other ingredients to customize the recipe: olives, chili peppers, or even some slices of prosciutto.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a can of crushed tomatoes for extra moisture.
- Instead of Parmesan, you can use feta cheese for a saltier and creamier note.
- A bottle of dry white wine pairs perfectly with this dish for a truly special meal.

Nutritional Benefits
This spaghetti recipe with tomatoes and basil is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps protect cells. Basil provides anti-inflammatory benefits, while olive oil contributes to cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients, making it a healthy choice. Cooking time may vary, so follow the package instructions.

2. How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, you can store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little olive oil to revive the flavors.

3. Can it be made vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add a mix of vegetables to give it more volume and texture.

4. What side dish pairs well?
A simple green salad with lemon dressing and olive oil is an excellent choice to accompany this dish.

Customized Variant
For a touch of originality, you can try adding some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for a crunchy texture. You can also add chili flakes for a hint of spiciness.

In conclusion, spaghetti with tomatoes and basil is a perfect choice for those who love simple yet flavorful food. This easy recipe will not only bring you culinary satisfaction but also the joy of sharing beautiful moments with loved ones. Prepare it with love and savor every bite!