Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
This Old Fashioned Spaghetti recipe is a timeless classic, embodying the essence of traditional Italian cooking. It features al dente spaghetti enveloped in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, seasoned with fresh herbs and spices. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring a satisfying and authentic Italian dining experience.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or saucepan for the sauce
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Cheese grater for Parmesan cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- A handful of fresh basil leaves chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
Prepare the Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes. Add sugar if using, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Final Touches:
- Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
- Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve:
- Plate the spaghetti with a garnish of more fresh basil, if desired. Offer additional Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to add to their liking.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added.
- Fresh herbs are preferable for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
- The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.