Old-school spaghetti is a timeless classic that has won the hearts of many across generations. This traditional dish, often simple yet bursting with flavor, represents the essence of Italian home cooking. Its charm lies in its straightforward ingredients and the soulful process of bringing them together to create a meal that is both comforting and delicious.
The beauty of spaghetti lies in its versatility. From a basic marinara sauce to more elaborate versions with meat, vegetables, or seafood, spaghetti can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. This recipe focuses on a classic cherry tomato sauce, an uncomplicated yet delightful rendition that highlights the natural sweetness and acidity of cherry tomatoes. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, while the garlic and olive oil create a rich, aromatic base. This version is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to make a perfect meal.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 300 g to 500 g spaghetti: The amount of pasta can be adjusted based on servings.
- Salt: For boiling water and seasoning the sauce.
- Water: Enough to boil the pasta.
For the cherry tomato sauce:
- 600 g cherry tomatoes: Choose ripe, sweet tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 100 ml high-quality olive oil: This will form the base of the sauce, so quality matters.
- 2 cloves minced garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): To balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- A few fresh basil leaves: Adds a fragrant, fresh touch.
To serve:
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For an added layer of flavor.
Directions
- Cooking the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup (250 ml) of the pasta cooking water.
- Making the Cherry Tomato Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are tender and start to burst, about 5 minutes.
- Lightly mash some of the tomatoes with a fork to release their juices.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Combining the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the saucepan with the tomato sauce.
- Toss to combine, adding some of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.
- Serving:
- Divide the spaghetti among four bowls.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic cherry tomato sauce is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to customize this dish to suit different preferences and dietary needs.
Meat Lovers
For those who enjoy a meaty sauce, ground beef, Italian sausage, or even pancetta can be added. Brown the meat in the pan before adding the garlic and tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Vegetarian Delight
Enhance the vegetarian appeal by adding a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté these with the garlic before adding the tomatoes for a more robust sauce.
Vegan Version
To make this dish vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Seafood Twist
For a seafood variation, add shrimp or scallops. Cook these separately and mix them into the sauce just before tossing with the pasta.
Spicy Kick
If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers along with the garlic. This will infuse the sauce with a spicy undertone that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Herbaceous Flavor
Experiment with different herbs. While basil is traditional, fresh oregano, thyme, or even parsley can add a different dimension to the sauce.
Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free spaghetti to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.
Tips for the Best Spaghetti
- Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this recipe means each ingredient shines. Use the best-quality olive oil, fresh garlic, and ripe cherry tomatoes you can find.
- Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente (to the tooth) for the perfect texture.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t skip the step of reserving pasta water. Its starchy content helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a luscious coating.
Conclusion
Old-school spaghetti with cherry tomato sauce is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. Its simplicity allows for endless variations, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor each bite of this timeless Italian favorite.
Old school spaghetti
Ingredients
- 300 g to 500 g spaghetti – Adjust based on servings
- Salt – For boiling water and seasoning the sauce
- Water – Enough to boil the pasta
For the Cherry Tomato Sauce:
- 600 g cherry tomatoes – Choose ripe sweet tomatoes for best flavor
- 100 ml high-quality olive oil – Forms the base of the sauce
- 2 cloves minced garlic – Adds a deep aromatic flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional – To balance the acidity of the tomatoes
- A few fresh basil leaves – Adds a fragrant fresh touch
To Serve:
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional – For an added layer of flavor
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook 300-500 g spaghetti until al dente; reserve 1 cup (250 ml) pasta water.
- Heat 100 ml olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant.
- Add 600 g cherry tomatoes, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar (if using); cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes burst.
- Lightly mash some tomatoes to release their juices; remove from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with the tomato sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat the pasta.
- Divide among bowls, top with grated Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Meat Lovers: Add ground beef, Italian sausage, or pancetta.
- Vegetarian Delight: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Vegan Version: Omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese; sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers for heat.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Experiment with oregano, thyme, or parsley.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free option.
- Tips: Use high-quality ingredients and reserve pasta water to enhance the sauce.
