Spaghetti with bacon and tomato sauce

Spaghetti with bacon and tomato sauce - A delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of spaghetti with bacon and tomato sauce is rich in flavor and tradition. This dish has evolved over the years, combining simple and accessible ingredients to create a tasty meal that brings family and friends together. Whether served at a casual dinner or a special occasion, this spaghetti is always a wise choice.

Ingredients:

- 500 g peeled tomatoes in their juice (or fresh tomatoes, if you prefer)
- 350 g spaghetti
- 150 g bacon
- 1 small onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 50 g grated Parmesan (optional, but recommended for a perfect taste)

Step by step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Peel the garlic and cut it in half to release its aroma. Cut the bacon into small cubes so that it fries evenly and becomes crispy.

2. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the halved garlic and let it sauté on low heat for about 1 minute until golden and fragrant. Then remove the garlic from the skillet to avoid an overpowering taste.

3. Add the onion and bacon: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bacon cubes. Sauté them together for 1-2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the bacon starts to fry.

4. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a blender, puree the peeled tomatoes to obtain a smooth puree. Add the tomato puree to the skillet over the onion and bacon. Mix well and season with salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried rosemary.

5. Cook the sauce: Let the sauce simmer over medium heat, reducing it gradually until it thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes. This step is essential for intensifying the flavors and achieving a rich and tasty sauce.

6. Boil the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes. It's essential to check by tasting to ensure they are al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite.

7. Mix the pasta with the sauce: Once the spaghetti is ready, drain them well and add them to the skillet with the tomato sauce and bacon. Mix everything to allow the sauce to coat the pasta evenly.

8. Serving: Portion the spaghetti into deep plates, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top, and serve hot. If you want an extra burst of flavor, you can add a few fresh basil leaves at the end.

Helpful tips:

- For a more intense flavor: You can add a few chili flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Variations: Substitute bacon with pancetta or chorizo for a different twist. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to make the dish healthier.
- Pairings: This spaghetti pairs perfectly with a dry red wine or a fresh green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, you can use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option, as they are richer in fiber.
2. How can I store the tomato sauce? The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later use.
3. What other herbs can I use? Besides basil and rosemary, you can try oregano or thyme to add another flavor dimension to your sauce.

Nutritional values (approximate per serving):

- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g

This spaghetti with bacon and tomato sauce is not just a simple and quick recipe, but also a dish that will bring joy and comfort to every meal. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g peeled tomatoes in their own juice, 350 g spaghetti, 150 g bacon, 1 small onion, 1 clove of garlic, salt, pepper, dried basil, dried rosemary, 3 tablespoons of oil, grated Parmesan.