Napoletana pasta

Pasta alla Napoletana: a simple and delicious recipe

Let's turn our attention to a classic recipe, so full of flavor, that will transform every meal into a celebration of taste. Pasta alla Napoletana is a quick dish, ideal for days when you want to enjoy a comforting meal but don't have much time available. This dish combines the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavors, offering you a final result that will delight your taste buds.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Basic ingredients

To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 200 g pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or any type of pasta you prefer)
- 1 large onion
- 1 medium red onion
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 small can of tomatoes in juice (about 400 g)
- 2 fresh basil leaves
- 1 pinch of dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Ingredient tips

1. Pasta: Choosing high-quality pasta can make a significant difference in the final dish. Pasta made from durum wheat, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, is best suited to absorb the rich sauce.

2. Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, ensure they are well-ripened. You can also add a little sugar to balance the acidity.

3. Garlic: Garlic adds a deep flavor to the sauce, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount to 3 cloves.

4. Basil: This is the ingredient that brings freshness and flavor to the dish. Make sure it is fresh, as it makes a big difference compared to dried basil.

5. Olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Chop the large onion and the red onion finely. Peel the garlic but leave it whole – this will allow it to release its aroma without turning into paste.

2. In a non-stick skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and releases its aroma.

3. Meanwhile, remove the tomatoes from the can and chop them finely. Add them to the skillet along with the tomato juice from the can. Mix well, then let the sauce simmer on low heat, covered, for 10-15 minutes. The sauce will reduce and become more concentrated in flavors.

4. In a separate pot, add water and bring it to a boil for the pasta. Add a teaspoon of salt and a little oil to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the water starts to boil, add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

5. A few minutes before the pasta is ready, add 2-3 tablespoons of the pasta cooking water to the tomato sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, then add it to the skillet with the sauce. Mix well, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it sit on low heat for another minute, then turn off the heat.

7. Add the fresh basil, finely chopped, and mix gently.

8. Serve the pasta hot, drizzled with a little olive oil and, if desired, topped with grated parmesan.

Serving suggestions

To complete this delicious meal, you can serve the pasta with a fresh green salad or a tomato bruschetta. Also, a glass of dry white wine would be the perfect accompaniment.

Vegan option

If you want to turn this recipe into a vegan dish, you can use egg-free pasta, and the result will be just as tasty and satisfying.

Nutritional values

This recipe provides a serving rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, fiber from the tomatoes, and antioxidants from the garlic and basil. The calories per serving are approximately 400-500, depending on the type of pasta used and the amount of olive oil added.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is an excellent option, providing more fiber and nutrients.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a little dried chili or chili flakes to the tomato sauce for a spicier flavor.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sure! You can add zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for an extra boost of vitamins and an interesting texture.

4. How do I store the pasta to reheat later?
Store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you want to reheat them, you can add a little water or olive oil to bring them back to the desired consistency.

This pasta alla Napoletana recipe is not just a simple meal but a true culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for yourself, for family, or for friends, it will surely bring smiles and satisfaction. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 200 g pasta (preferably fettuccine, but I didn't have any) 1 large onion 1 medium red onion 5 cloves of garlic 1 small can of tomatoes in juice 2 fresh basil leaves 1 pinch of dried oregano 1 tablespoon of olive oil salt pepper

 Tags:  pasta with tomato sauce