Spaghetti with marinara sauce is an Italian classic dish and incredibly flavorful. It features long, thin pasta strands paired with a tomato-based sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. This dish has a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor, complemented by aromatic undertones from the garlic and herbs. The pasta is typically cooked al dente to provide a firm bite, while the sauce remains smooth with small chunks of tomatoes. It is often topped with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. Garlic bread or a side salad makes the perfect accompaniment.
Authonitic Italian Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Spaghetti with marinara sauce is an Italian classic dish and incredibly flavorful. It features long, thin pasta strands paired with a tomato-based sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs.
Calories
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion
- 800g canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Instructions1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion; sauté until softened and fragrant (do not brown).
- Add the canned tomatoes, crushing them lightly with your hands or a spoon if using whole ones.
- Stir in dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using)
- Simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
- Cook the Spaghetti:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
Notes
- Use Good-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for canned San Marzano tomatoes or fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti to al dente for the best texture. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Layer the Flavor: Sauté onions and garlic slowly to enhance their sweetness and richness in the sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil at the end of cooking for a burst of flavor.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine, balsamic vinegar, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.
- Let It Simmer: Simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to blend flavors fully.
- Mix Before Serving: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce in the pan to coat evenly before plating.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion; sauté until softened and fragrant (do not brown).
- Add the canned tomatoes, crushing them lightly with your hands or a spoon if using whole ones.
- Stir in dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
Nutritional Values (without optional Parmesan cheese):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 300–500mg
With Parmesan Cheese (1 tbsp):
- Adds ~22 calories, 2g protein, and 1.4g fat.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use fresh or high-quality canned tomatoes.
- Cook spaghetti al dente.Simmer marinara sauce to deepen flavors.
- Reserve pasta water to thicken the sauce.
- Toss pasta with sauce, not just on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan.
- Add chili flakes or veggies for variety.