A Simple Yet Delicious Spaghetti Recipe
This recipe provides a foundational understanding of making spaghetti, allowing for easy customization to your liking. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, it focuses on achieving a perfectly cooked pasta and a vibrant, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti: Choose your preferred brand and type (regular, whole wheat, etc.).
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but you can use pre-minced if necessary.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Adjust to your preferences.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): For garnish and extra flavor.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan cheese is a classic pairing.
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should be generously salted – it’s essential for flavoring the pasta.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help thicken the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Add a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more garlic, oregano, or red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with additions: Sautéed vegetables, ground meat, or sausage can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and substance.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Variations
This basic recipe is a blank canvas. Experiment! Try adding:
- Meat: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs.
- Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach.
- Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses.
- Different herbs: Basil is classic, but thyme, rosemary, or parsley could also work well.
This simple spaghetti recipe is a perfect starting point for your culinary adventures. Enjoy!
