Recipe Information

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• Spaghetti:
  • 500 grams of De Cecco no. 12 spaghetti (this brand makes a noticeable difference!)
• Tomatoes:
  • 1 can of cherry tomatoes (fresh won’t yield the same results)
  • 300 grams of tomato puree
• Onion:
  • 1 yellow onion, finely sliced
• Garlic:
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Basil:
  • 1 organic basil plant, leaves chopped
• Other Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • A pinch of Espelette pepper
  • Some fleur de sel, to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the spaghetti.
2. While the water heats, slice the onion and mince the garlic.
3. In a large skillet or wok, gently sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over low heat.
4. Add the can of cherry tomatoes, the tomato puree, the tablespoon of sugar, and the spices.
5. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. When your spaghetti reaches ‘Al Dente’ status, add it directly to the sauce along with the chopped basil leaves to your liking.
7. Cook for another minute on high heat. This step is crucial as it allows the spaghetti to absorb the sauce, enhancing the flavor of the dish.
8. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a delightful presentation.

Notes

You can add freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor!

Recipe Tips

For an elevated flavor, consider using homemade tomato sauce if you have time. Fresh ingredients will always enhance the final dish!

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, primarily from carbohydrates and healthy fats!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

While you can use fresh tomatoes, using canned cherry tomatoes provides a richer and more consistent flavor for this recipe.

2. What type of pasta can I substitute?

You can use any pasta shape that you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or linguine, but the cooking time may vary.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it does not include any animal products, just skip the Parmesan cheese.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.