Spaghetti al Pomodoro: A Classic Italian Dish
Category: First Course (Primi Piatti)
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
When it comes to classic Italian cuisine, few dishes embody simplicity and flavor as beautifully as Spaghetti al Pomodoro. This iconic dish is beloved not just for its ease of preparation but also for the rich, comforting taste of the fresh, slow-cooked tomato sauce. Using only a few key ingredients โ spaghetti, canned peeled tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, fresh basil, and salt โ this dish brings the best of Italian tradition right into your kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends and family, Spaghetti al Pomodoro is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Spaghetti | 320g |
Canned peeled tomatoes | 800g |
Extra virgin olive oil | 30g |
Garlic | 1 clove |
Fresh basil | To taste |
Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Value |
---|---|
Calories | ~300 kcal |
Carbohydrates | ~60g |
Protein | ~7g |
Fat | ~7g |
Fiber | ~4g |
Sodium | ~400mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands used.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by preparing the tomato sauce that will give your Spaghetti al Pomodoro its delicious flavor. In a large pan, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and add the garlic clove, which should be peeled and sliced in half. This will allow you to easily remove the inner germ (the โsoulโ of the garlic) for a milder taste. Turn the heat to medium-high and allow the garlic to cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Once the garlic has infused the oil, itโs time to add the canned peeled tomatoes. Gently crush the tomatoes with a spoon as they cook, ensuring that they release their juices and break down into a rich, savory sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and lower the heat to a very low simmer. Let the sauce cook for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can meld and deepen. The sauce should simmer gently, becoming thick and fragrant over time.
Step 3: Final Touches for the Sauce
After the sauce has simmered for an hour, remove the garlic pieces from the pan. You want the sauce to be smooth and velvety, so discard the garlic or keep it aside to use in another dish. Once the garlic is removed, add a generous amount of fresh basil leaves to the sauce. This will infuse the sauce with an aromatic herbal flavor that perfectly complements the tomatoes. Let the sauce cook for a few more minutes to allow the basil to release its oils.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is finishing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the instructions on the package (typically around 8-10 minutes). Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is ready, drain it, reserving a little bit of the pasta cooking water in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Add the drained pasta directly into the simmering tomato sauce. Toss the spaghetti and sauce together, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce and flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Your Spaghetti al Pomodoro is almost ready to serve! Plate the pasta, making sure to coat each strand generously with the sauce. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of freshness and color.
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti al Pomodoro
- Use quality tomatoes: Since the sauce is so simple, the quality of the tomatoes really makes a difference. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes or another variety known for their rich flavor.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Slow-cooking the tomatoes allows their natural sweetness to emerge, making for a more flavorful sauce.
- Salt to taste: Be sure to taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Sometimes a little extra salt can elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Choose the right pasta: While spaghetti is the classic choice, you can also try this sauce with other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, for a different experience.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite as satisfying as a plate of Spaghetti al Pomodoro. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta and a fresh, flavorful tomato sauce is a true testament to the power of simple ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as a quick meal or as part of a larger Italian feast, this dish is bound to bring a touch of Italian warmth to your table.
If youโre looking to elevate your experience, serve the pasta with a side of crusty Italian bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce. Buon Appetito!