Spaghetti with tomato sauce and basil
Spaghetti with tomato and basil sauce: A simple and delicious recipe
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Welcome to your kitchen! Today we will enjoy a classic yet flavorful recipe: spaghetti with fresh tomato and basil sauce. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. We will use simple ingredients that have a remarkable impact on taste. Additionally, our sauce will transform into a true symphony of flavors, and the fresh basil will add a touch of freshness that makes every bite a pleasure.
A brief history
Tomato sauce is a staple ingredient in traditional cuisine, with deep roots in culinary history. Over time, it has evolved from a simple tomato puree into a complex sauce full of flavors. Basil, on the other hand, is a sun-loving aromatic plant that adds not only a unique taste but also an irresistible fragrance. Therefore, the combination of tomatoes and basil is considered one of the most successful in cooking.
Ingredients
- 500 g fresh tomatoes
- 8 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- A pinch of sugar (to balance the acidity)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 4 fresh basil leaves, plus a few for garnish
- 180 g spaghetti
Step by step
1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by thoroughly cleaning the tomatoes. Wash them under running water, then peel them. A simple method is to plunge them in hot water for a few seconds and then in cold water. The skin will come off easily. Cut the tomatoes into cubes.
2. Cleaning the garlic: Separate the cloves of garlic from the bulb and peel them. You can use a knife blade to gently crush them, which will release the aroma.
3. Preparing the sauce: In a deep pan, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the garlic and sauté gently until it turns golden, being careful not to burn it, as it can become bitter. The garlic will add a deep flavor to the sauce.
4. Adding the tomatoes: Once the garlic is ready, add the tomato cubes to the pan. Sprinkle salt to taste, a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, and the teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Mix all the ingredients well.
5. Boiling the sauce: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. The goal is to achieve a creamy and thick sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a few tablespoons of water.
6. Preparing the spaghetti: Meanwhile, bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt, then the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain them, but keep a little of the cooking water.
7. Finalizing the sauce: When the sauce is almost ready, add the finely chopped basil leaves. They will add a fresh and vibrant aroma. Mix everything well.
8. Assembling the dish: Add the drained spaghetti to the pan over the tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved cooking water. Mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
9. Serving: Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a drizzle of olive oil on top. You can accompany this dish with grated Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
Practical tips
- Fresh tomatoes are essential for this sauce. Choose high-quality tomatoes, preferably from markets or local farmers.
- Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for a more intense flavor. Additionally, it offers health benefits, being rich in antioxidants.
- If you want to add a touch of spiciness, you can put chili flakes in the sauce.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to create a richer sauce.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Of course! Canned tomatoes can be a convenient alternative. Choose those without additives and with a high tomato content.
2. How can I make the sauce richer?
For a more complex sauce, you can add some black olives or a handful of capers, providing a salty note and a deep flavor.
3. What other pasta can I use?
This recipe works perfectly with any type of pasta, from penne to tagliatelle.
Nutritional benefits
This spaghetti recipe with tomato and basil sauce is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while basil is packed with vitamins and minerals.
Ideal pairings
These spaghetti can be perfectly accompanied by a fresh green salad, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. If you want a drink, a dry white wine or fresh lemonade will wonderfully complement the meal.
Enjoy cooking! May every bite bring you closer to an unforgettable culinary experience!
Ingredients: 500 g tomatoes, 8 cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, sugar, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 4 basil leaves, plus a few for garnish, 180 g pasta
