Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to Italy with this Simple Retro Bowl Spaghetti recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor and nostalgia, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. With the rich aroma of garlic and fresh basil wafting through your kitchen, you'll find it hard to resist diving into this comforting bowl of spaghetti. Curious how to create this classic dish that’s sure to impress? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Spaghetti
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Canned tomatoes
- Basil
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- While waiting for water to boil, peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
- Add spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
- Pour canned tomatoes into the skillet, breaking them down with a wooden spoon. Simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them into the pasta. If sauce seems dry, add reserved pasta water to help sauce adhere.
- Plate the spaghetti in a large serving bowl, generously grating fresh Parmesan cheese on top.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, make sure to stir the spaghetti occasionally while it cooks. This prevents it from sticking together and ensures even cooking.
- Garlic Care: Keep a close eye on the garlic as it sautés. You want it fragrant and golden, not burnt. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your sauce.
- Tomato Sauce Magic: When adding the canned tomatoes, don’t hesitate to break them down with your wooden spoon. This helps create a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Pasta Water is Gold: Always reserve a bit of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be a game-changer in achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese! A generous grating on top not only adds flavor but also elevates the presentation of your dish.
- Fresh Basil Boost: Add the basil at the end to maintain its vibrant color and fresh flavor. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
- Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve your spaghetti immediately after plating. A hot dish enhances the flavors and makes for a more enjoyable meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
