Save to Pinterest A classic Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente spaghetti topped with a vibrant, slow-simmered tomato marinara sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner.
This recipe reminds me of family dinners where everyone eagerly awaited the rich flavors and warm atmosphere.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) dried spaghetti
- Marinara Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 4 cloves garlic minced, 800 g (28 oz) canned whole tomatoes (San Marzano preferred) crushed by hand, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity), 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves torn
- Garnish: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional), extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Step 2:
- In a large saucepan heat olive oil over medium heat Add the onion and s aure until translucent about 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Step 5:
- Add the crushed tomatoes oregano dried basil sugar (if using) and red pepper flakes Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Bring to a simmer reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 25 30 minutes stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Step 7:
- Meanwhile cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water then drain the pasta.
- Step 8:
- Stir fresh basil into the sauce Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 9:
- Toss the drained spaghetti with the marinara sauce adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest Gathering around the table with loved ones while sharing this meal creates cherished family memories.
Notes
For a chunkier sauce lightly mash the tomatoes with a wooden spoon while simmering Add sautéed mushrooms olives or capers for extra flavor For vegan omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative Pairs well with Chianti or a crisp green salad.
Required Tools
Large pot Large saucepan Wooden spoon Colander Chefs knife Grater for Parmesan
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (spaghetti) and milk (Parmesan cheese) For gluten-free use gluten-free spaghetti For dairy-free omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save to Pinterest A simple and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of Italian cooking right to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve al dente spaghetti?
Cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water just until tender but still firm to the bite, usually 8–10 minutes depending on the brand. Test a strand early to avoid overcooking.
- → What is the best way to thicken the marinara sauce?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The slow reduction helps concentrate flavors and thicken the sauce naturally.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, olives, or capers can be added during the simmering stage to deepen the flavor and texture.
- → How do I adjust the sauce’s acidity?
A small amount of sugar can be added to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes without overpowering the sauce.
- → What are suitable garnishes for this dish?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhance the dish’s flavor and add a rich finish.