Spaghetti is a classic, beloved dish with roots in Italy. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, making spaghetti is a breeze. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps for making spaghetti that’s delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
– 1 lb spaghetti
– 1 can of crushed or diced tomatoes (28 oz)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
1. Put a pot of salted water on to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat up the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the can of tomatoes, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan and toss to coat the noodles thoroughly.
5. Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just chop up a pound of fresh tomatoes and add them to the saucepan instead of the canned tomatoes.
Q: How do I know when the spaghetti is cooked al dente?
A: Al dente means “to the tooth,” which refers to pasta that is cooked until it’s firm but not too soft. To test if your spaghetti is cooked al dente, take a piece out of the pot and bite into it. If it’s slightly firm in the center, it’s al dente.
Q: Can I add meat to the sauce?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef, Italian sausage, or even sliced chicken can be added to the sauce for added protein and flavor.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using a plant-based protein instead of meat.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes about 4 servings. If you’re serving a larger group, you can double the recipe.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
A: Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are just a few examples of vegetables that would work well in this spaghetti recipe. Just chop them up and add them to the saucepan along with the onion and garlic.
Making spaghetti is a simple, satisfying way to feed your family or friends. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting meal in minutes. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to include your favorite meats, vegetables, or spices. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, give this spaghetti recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!
