"Ultimate Spaghetti with Tomato Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Guide to Perfect Pasta Every Time"

#### Spaghetti with Tomato RecipeWhen it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes are as beloved and universally recognized as spaghetti with tomato sauce. This……

#### Spaghetti with Tomato Recipe

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes are as beloved and universally recognized as spaghetti with tomato sauce. This classic dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a staple in households around the world. In this guide, we will explore the ultimate spaghetti with tomato recipe that promises to elevate your pasta game and impress your family and friends.

#### Ingredients

To create the perfect spaghetti with tomato sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

- **Spaghetti**: 400 grams of dried spaghetti

- **Tomatoes**: 800 grams of ripe tomatoes (or one can of crushed tomatoes)

- **Garlic**: 3 cloves, minced

- **Onion**: 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- **Olive Oil**: 3 tablespoons

- **Basil**: Fresh basil leaves, a handful (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)

- **Salt and Pepper**: To taste

- **Parmesan Cheese**: Grated, for serving

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Cook the Spaghetti**: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

2. **Prepare the Tomato Sauce**: While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.

3. **Add the Tomatoes**: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for a minute, then transfer them to an ice bath. Once cooled, peel and chop them. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet (or the canned crushed tomatoes) and stir well. Season with salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. **Combine Spaghetti and Sauce**: Once the tomato sauce has thickened, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Stir in the fresh basil and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

5. **Serve**: Plate the spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your homemade spaghetti with tomato sauce!

#### Tips for the Best Spaghetti with Tomato Recipe

- **Quality Ingredients**: The success of your spaghetti with tomato recipe largely depends on the quality of the ingredients. Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not available, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes.

- **Herbs and Seasoning**: Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs. Adding oregano, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile of your sauce.

- **Pasta Water**: The starchy pasta water is a secret ingredient that can help bind the sauce to the spaghetti, giving it a creamy texture without the need for cream.

- **Cheese**: For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of pecorino Romano cheese along with the Parmesan.

#### Conclusion

This ultimate spaghetti with tomato recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. With just a few steps and some basic ingredients, you can whip up a plate of spaghetti that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every bite!