| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 7g | 2g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 9g | 0.78g |
Close your eyes for a moment and imagine long tendrils of toasted golden spaghetti tangled up with a robust, fresh tomato sauce, glistening with olive oil, and speckled with aromatic herbs. Yes, I’m talking about our Classic Tomato Spaghetti! This delightful recipe, inspired by timeless Italian cookery, is deliciously transformed into a healthier version while losing none of its culinary charm. As a West Coast native and a promoter of healthier eating, I couldn’t resist letting my roots infuse our traditional American comfort foods in a fresher, lighter manner.
A Heart and Soul-Nourishing Dish
This Classic Tomato Spaghetti recipe instantly won my heart due to its perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and comfort. A beautiful, rich tomato sauce, perfectly complemented by the subtle heat of garlic and red pepper flakes, forms the ideal dressing for the undeniably opulent spaghetti. The addition of olive oil, garlic, and a rainbow of tomatoes not only adds a splash of vibrant color but also makes this recipe a treasure trove of antioxidants, vitamins, and monounsaturated fats, galvanizing our health and well-being.
Fusion of Comfort and Health
The backbone of my meal creations and philosophy directly draws from my sunny Californian upbringing and a conscious focus on healthy living. The Classic Tomato Spaghetti dish mirrors this wonderfully, holding onto the comfort and familiarity of pasta while incorporating a burst of garden-fresh ingredients, promoting overall wellness. The dish is reminiscent of a traditional Italian spaghetti pomodoro, while the addition of colors from various tomatoes feels like a delightful homage to my beloved West Coast.
If you’re thinking about classic pairings, this Classic Tomato Spaghetti harmonizes beautifully with an Roasted Garlic-Beet Salad. In the spirit of keeping it light, I would even suggest a sprightly, vibrant Avocado, Cilantro and Lime Salad. Want to try it with some wine? Opt for a light-bodied Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect symphony of flavors.
So there you have it, my friends. A simple spaghetti recipe that holds the comforting familiarity of a traditional pasta dish, but with an ever-so-subtle Californian, health-conscious twist. Pair it, share it, and above all, let the flavors dance on your palate as you journey through the culinary adventure that is our Classic Tomato Spaghetti.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb of spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups of ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup of freshly chopped Italian parsley
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing
Method
Step One
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooked, drain it and set it aside.
Step Two
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and finely chopped red onion. Sauté these until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step Three
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan with the onions and garlic. Let these cook for a couple of minutes until they begin to soften, then add your peeled and diced ripe tomatoes. Stir all the ingredients together and let this mixture cook for around 5-10 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and have released their juices.
Step Four
Now, season your tomato mixture with the salt, black pepper, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. Let this simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step Five
Add the cooked and drained spaghetti to your tomato mixture. Toss the pasta in the sauce to make sure it’s fully coated. Let this cook for another couple of minutes to warm the spaghetti through and combine the flavors.
Step Six
Finally, turn off the heat and finish your dish by stirring through the freshly chopped Italian parsley and sprinkling over the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss once more to coat the pasta in the cheese and herbs.
Step Seven
Once ready to serve, divide the Classic Tomato Spaghetti among your plates. Garnish each serving with some fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
