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–+ servings

Old school spaghetti

Old School Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a fresh and vibrant cherry tomato sauce. Simple yet flavorful, this dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Serve with grated Parmesan for an added layer of richness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcal
Keyword Old School Spaghetti
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