Classic spaghetti
Our classic spaghetti recipe is perfect for new cooks and anyone looking to improve their culinary skills. With our easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious pasta dish that will impress you time and time again.
From the perfect cooking of the spaghetti to the preparation of the spicy sauce, our recipe is a guarantee of success. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family or friends, this classic dish will delight any palate.
Don’t settle for mediocre spaghetti when you can create a culinary masterpiece with our tried-and-true recipe. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
- 400 g chopped canned tomatoes
- 20g pack of basil leaves, chopped
- 400g dried spaghetti (about three quarters of a 500g package)
- 1x 150g ball mozzarella
Preparation steps
- Peel the onion, cut it in half down to the root and cut off the top.
- Place the onion, cut side down, on a cutting board.
- Using your knife, cut three slices through the onion parallel to the board, leaving the root intact.
- Using the tip of a knife, cut the onion four times from top to bottom at the root end.
- Holding the root end, thinly slice the onion to form small cube pieces.
- Place a large frying pan over medium heat and when hot, add the oil and then the onion.
- Cook until softened, 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic and cook another 2 minutes until the onions begin to turn golden brown.
- When the onion is soft, add the tomatoes and half the basil.
- Simmer gently for 15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and looks mushy.
- Stir occasionally and break up any large clumps of tomatoes with the back of the spoon.
- Pour water ¾ to the top of your largest pan.
- Heat over high heat and add plenty of salt.
- When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti to the pan.
- When it softens, press everything into the water with your hands.
- Stir to separate the noodles, then cook according to package directions, about 10 minutes.
- Try a strand of pasta. It should just be soft but not mushy.
- Scoop out a cup of water before draining in a colander (this will help loosen the sauce).
- Return the drained pasta to the saucepan and then pour over the tomato sauce.
- Stir everything well.
- The sauce should just cover the pasta. If it is thick and looks dry, stir in a few spoonfuls of the pasta water.
- If it is watery, cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until evaporated.
- Break the mozzarella into coarse pieces with your hands and stir through the pasta along with the remaining basil leaves.
- Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbohydrates | Sugar | fiber | protein | Salt |
| 0 | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
Equipment and tools
- cutting board
- Knife
- Big pot
- frying pan
- wooden spoon
- Sieve
- Serving bowl
Allergen information
This recipe contains the following allergens:
- Dairy products (mozzarella)
Please check whether the brand of ingredients you are using contains additional allergens.
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply place desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat until piping hot.
Note: Pasta may become slightly softer when reheated.
The health benefits of classic spaghetti
Classic spaghetti is not only a delicious and filling dish, but also offers numerous health benefits. This popular Italian pasta dish is often enjoyed with a variety of sauces and ingredients, making it versatile and adaptable to different preferences and dietary needs.
1. Nutrient-rich ingredients
The recipe for classic spaghetti typically includes nutrient-dense ingredients such as onions, garlic, tomatoes, basil leaves and olive oil. Onions are a great source of antioxidants and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic has been used for centuries for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C as well as lycopene, an antioxidant known for its anti-cancer properties. Basil leaves not only add a fresh flavor to the dish, but also provide additional antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory effects. When consumed in moderation, olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. High fiber content
One of the main ingredients of classic spaghetti is dried spaghetti, a type of pasta made from wheat flour. This pasta is a good source of fiber, promotes healthy digestion and helps with weight control. Fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and prevent constipation.
3. Rich in protein and calcium
Classic spaghetti often includes mozzarella, a type of cheese that gives the dish a creamy consistency. Mozzarella contains protein, which is essential for cell repair and growth. It also provides calcium, contributing to healthy bones and teeth. In addition, calcium plays an important role in nerve function, muscle contraction and blood clotting.
Overall, classic spaghetti not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers several health benefits. From the nutrient-dense ingredients to the high fiber content and protein-rich mozzarella, this traditional dish can be a nutritious addition to your diet. Remember to enjoy it as part of a balanced meal and pay attention to portion sizes to take full advantage of its health benefits.
