Classic Italian Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 400 grams (14 oz) spaghetti
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400 grams / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or you can use fresh tomatoes, about 4-6, peeled and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup or to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Boil the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn it).
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan. If using fresh tomatoes, you can add them at this point.
- Stir in the sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add the fresh basil towards the end of cooking.
3. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
- Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce in the skillet. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- If the sauce looks too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve:
- Plate the spaghetti and top with extra fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Enjoy your classic Italian spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread!
Tips:
- Feel free to add cooked meat (like ground beef or sausage) or vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms) to the sauce if you want to enhance the dish.
- This recipe can easily be adjusted to taste, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Buon Appetito!
