Old-school spaghetti*

1. Prepare the Sauce

• Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
• Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
• Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan, stirring well to combine.
• Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer.
• Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too acidic, add a tablespoon of sugar to balance out the flavors.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

• While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
• Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.

3. Combine and Serve

• Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce and toss well, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to help loosen it up.
• Plate the spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.

Tips for the Perfect Old-School Spaghetti:

1. Use Quality Tomatoes: The key to a great spaghetti sauce is high-quality tomatoes. Opt for canned tomatoes that are marked as “San Marzano” for the best flavor. Their sweetness and low acidity make them perfect for a classic sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To ensure your spaghetti has the perfect texture, make sure to cook it al dente (firm to the bite). This will allow it to absorb the sauce better and give you that authentic Italian pasta experience.
3. Make It Your Own: While this recipe is a classic, feel free to personalize it! Add some ground beef or sausage to the sauce for a meatier version, or incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a heartier dish.
4. Make It Ahead of Time: The flavor of the sauce only gets better as it sits, so feel free to make the sauce a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Why This Recipe Works:

This old-school spaghetti recipe works because it embraces the beauty of simplicity. By focusing on quality ingredients and allowing the sauce to simmer slowly, you get a deep, rich flavor that elevates the dish without overwhelming it. The balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy from the tomatoes creates a comforting sauce that complements the pasta perfectly.

It’s the kind of recipe you can return to time and time again, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself on a quiet evening at home. The warm, familiar flavors will transport you to the heart of an Italian kitchen, where food is meant to be enjoyed and shared.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this classic spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A glass of red wine—something like a Chianti or a simple Italian table wine—will pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the tomato sauce.

A Timeless Favorite
Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a comfort food that brings people together. This old-school spaghetti recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and savor the timeless taste of homemade spaghetti. Buon appetito!