pasta with tomato sauce

A Simple Guide to Making Classic Tomato Spaghetti

Making delicious tomato spaghetti at home is easy and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create this beloved dish.

First, gather your ingredients: 400g spaghetti, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (to balance acidity). Optional additions include fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Drain the pasta and toss it into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help coat the strands evenly. Cook for 1-2 more minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade tomato spaghetti! This versatile dish can be customized with veggies, meat, or seafood for extra variety.