Discover the essence of Italian comfort food with our classic Italian spaghetti recipe. This timeless dish features perfectly cooked spaghetti enveloped in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. With the warmth of aromatic herbs and a touch of Parmesan, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that brings the taste of Italy to your table.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (about 225g) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- Cook 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. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Sauce and Spaghetti: Add the cooked and drained spaghetti to the tomato sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti and sauce mixture onto individual plates. If desired, garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy: Serve your Italian spaghetti hot and enjoy this classic and comforting dish!
Feel free to customize your spaghetti by adding cooked meatballs, sautéed mushrooms, or your favorite herbs and spices to the sauce. It’s a versatile dish that you can make your own!