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Old-school spaghetti*

Old-school spaghetti*

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such a timeless classic, let’s talk about how to make it yourself. This recipe is for a traditional, old-school spaghetti that’s simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients:

For the sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce, if preferred)
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the pasta:

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • Salt, for boiling water

Optional additions:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Meatballs, sausage, or ground beef (if you prefer a meat sauce)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
  • Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. This can be used later to thin out the sauce, if necessary.

2. Make the Sauce:

  • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
  • Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if using). Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together, and the sauce will thicken slightly.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

3. Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce:

  • Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If needed, add a little more pasta water to help the sauce stick to the noodles.

4. Serve and Garnish:

  • Plate the spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley, if desired. For an extra touch, you can add meatballs, sausage, or ground beef to make it a heartier meal.
  • Serve with crusty bread and a side salad for a complete old-school Italian meal.
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Tips for Perfect Old-School Spaghetti:

  • Use High-Quality Tomatoes: For the best flavor, choose good-quality canned tomatoes (San Marzano tomatoes are often recommended) and don’t skimp on the tomato paste. The richness of the tomatoes will make your sauce stand out.
  • Let the Sauce Simmer: Don’t rush the sauce. Let it cook slowly so the flavors can meld together and develop depth. If you have time, simmer the sauce for even longer to enhance its taste.
  • Customize with Meat: If you like meat in your spaghetti, brown ground beef, sausage, or meatballs before adding them to the sauce. You can also make a classic Bolognese-style sauce by simmering the meat with the tomatoes.
  • Save the Pasta Water: Don’t discard the water you cook your pasta in. It’s full of starch and can be added to your sauce to help thicken it or make it more silky.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Spaghetti should be al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite. Overcooking it will result in mushy noodles, so be sure to keep an eye on it.

Conclusion

Old-school spaghetti isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, simplicity, and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a group, this timeless dish will never disappoint. It’s hearty, comforting, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a perfect recipe for feeding a family without breaking the bank.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a classic dish that delivers on flavor and nostalgia, reach for the pasta and sauce and make a pot of old-school spaghetti. It’s a meal that never goes out of style!