Neapolitan Sauce

Neapolitan Sauce - A Flavorful Delicacy for Pasta

Neapolitan sauce is a true Italian feast, a rich and aromatic sauce that transforms any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Its origins are lost in history, but what is certain is that this sauce was created to envelop pasta in a hug of flavors, providing a full and satisfying taste. Whether you choose to serve it with spaghetti, penne, or tagliatelle, Neapolitan sauce is the perfect companion for a memorable dinner.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 stalk of celery, finely chopped
- 400 g canned tomatoes, chopped (or fresh tomatoes, depending on the season)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Extra virgin olive oil, for sautéing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion, garlic, and celery. Choose a quality onion, preferably a sweet one, which will add a pleasant flavor to the sauce. Fresh garlic is always better than powder, so make sure to use fresh cloves.

2. Sautéing the flavors: In a deep skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the garlic and celery. Continue to sauté everything for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Now is the time to add the chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh) to the skillet, along with the tomato paste. Canned tomatoes are excellent for this recipe, as they are often picked at peak ripeness and preserved at the height of their flavor. Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are combined.

4. The great simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the skillet with a lid and let the sauce simmer gently for 1 hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and blend perfectly. You can check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking.

5. Finishing the sauce: After the sauce has simmered for an hour, add a teaspoon of sugar. This will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and bring a richer taste. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Serving: Neapolitan sauce is perfect for serving with al dente spaghetti or any other type of pasta you prefer. You can garnish it with freshly chopped basil or grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.

Helpful tips:
- If you like a spicier sauce, you can add red pepper flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later use.
- For a richer version, you can add ground meat (beef or pork) during the onion sautéing stage.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes are excellent, especially in season. Make sure to choose ripe and juicy tomatoes.

2. How can I make the sauce even more flavorful?
Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can give the sauce an even deeper taste.

3. What other dishes can I pair with Neapolitan sauce?
This sauce pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a crispy baguette to accompany the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Neapolitan sauce is a healthy option, rich in lycopene (a powerful antioxidant from tomatoes) and vitamins. One serving (approximately 150g) contains about 120 calories, depending on the added ingredients. It is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a tasty yet healthy dish.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to start cooking! Neapolitan sauce will bring joy and flavor to your meal, and your family and friends will surely appreciate your effort. Bon appétit!