Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce Recipe

Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

1. Spaghetti: 400 grams
2. Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
3. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
4. Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
5. Canned tomatoes: 400 grams, crushed
6. Salt: to taste
7. Black pepper: to taste
8. Fresh basil: a handful, chopped
9. Parmesan cheese: for garnish
10. Water: for boiling pasta

Calorie Estimations:

• Spaghetti: 400 grams – Approximately 1,400 calories
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons – Approximately 240 calories
• Garlic: Negligible calories
• Onion: Negligible calories
• Canned tomatoes: Approximately 100 calories
• Parmesan cheese: Varies, but around 20 calories per tablespoon

Total Estimated Calories: Approximately 1,760 calories for the entire dish.

Instructions:

1. Pasta Preparation:
   • Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt.
   • Add spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Making the Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and chopped onions, sauté until onions are translucent.
   • Add crushed tomatoes to the pan.
   • Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
3. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce.
   • Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
   • If desired, add fresh basil and toss again.
4. Serving:
   • Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and additional basil leaves.
5. Tips for a Healthier Version:
   • Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber.
   • Increase the amount of garlic and onion for flavor without adding calories.
   • Consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
6. Nutritional Considerations:
   • This dish provides carbohydrates from the pasta and a range of vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and other vegetables.
   • Olive oil adds healthy fats to the dish.
   • To balance the meal, consider serving with a side of grilled chicken or fish for protein, and a salad for additional fiber and nutrients.

Conclusion:

This classic spaghetti with tomato sauce is a simple yet delicious meal. It’s perfect for a quick dinner and can be modified to suit various dietary needs. The calorie count provided is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Enjoy this classic Italian dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.