Spaghetti in Tomato Sauce
Savour the heart of Italian cooking with our easy spaghetti in tomato sauce. This beloved dish pairs cooked spaghetti with a rich tomato sauce made with carrots and onions. Garnished with a generous sprinkle of cheddar, Maasdam cheese, and fresh parsley, this comforting dish is sure to earn a spot among your go-to recipes.
Ingredients
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4
Carrots, coarsely grated (about 200 g)
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2
Onions, coarsely grated (about 100 g)
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1
Small garlic clove, crushed
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2 cans
Chopped tomatoes (about 800 g)
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2 tbsp
Broad-leaf parsley, chopped
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1½ tsp
Sugar
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1 tsp
Coarse salt
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Freshly ground pepper
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Spaghetti
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400 g
Dried pasta, for example, spaghetti
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Garnish
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150 g
Cheddar and Maasdam cheese, grated
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200 ml
Broad-leaf parsley, coarsely chopped
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Instructions
Tomato sauce
Spaghetti
Garnish
FAQ: Questions about spaghetti in tomato sauce
Spaghetti in tomato sauce is a classic that always hits the spot. We answer the most asked questions about this timeless dish.
Can I prepare tomato sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance. If you plan to use it soon, keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 2–3 days in a sealed container. For longer storage, freeze the sauce. Let it cool, then put it into freezer-safe containers with some space to expand. To use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
How should I store leftover spaghetti in tomato sauce?
Cool your leftover spaghetti in tomato sauce to room temperature. Then, seal it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for 2–3 days.
Tips: Perfecting spaghetti in tomato sauce
Learn how to perfect your spaghetti in tomato sauce with our helpful tips.
Al dente Pasta
Make sure the pasta is al dente before combining it with the tomato sauce. It should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten. To achieve this, follow the cooking time recommended on the pasta package, but start checking a minute or two earlier. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly after it is drained and mixed with the hot tomato sauce, so it is better to undercook it slightly.
Reserve pasta water
Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the consistency of your tomato sauce. When you mix the pasta with the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water helps the sauce adhere better to the spaghetti. The starch in the water acts as a natural thickener, ensuring the sauce clings to every strand of pasta.
Try our scrumptious spaghetti in tomato sauce
Indulge in the timeless charm of spaghetti in tomato sauce. Our easy recipe promises a rich, fresh taste that adults appreciate and kids absolutely adore, thanks to its comforting flavours. Why not surprise your family tonight with a beautiful serving of tomato spaghetti? In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare a simple meal with the scrumptious tastes of carrots, onion, cheese, and tomatoes.
Homemade tomato sauce with carrots and onions
At the heart of this dish is a homemade tomato sauce that pulsates with fresh, sweet, and savoury flavours from onions, garlic, and carrots. Do not underestimate the power of these basics. When sautéed together, the carrots, onions, and garlic caramelise and release their natural sugars and robust flavours, infusing the sauce with a perfect balance of sweetness and savoury depth. This combination enhances the tangy essence of the tomatoes, showcasing why we so adore tomato sauce. For a final touch, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a refreshing flavour.
If you love spaghetti and are on the lookout for more great recipes, we have a few great ones in store for you. Try the classic spaghetti aglio e olio or the delicious spaghetti puttanesca.
A timeless classic for the whole family
Spaghetti in tomato sauce has been a go-to meal for generations because of its simplicity and versatility. It is a timeless classic that has gathered family members around the dinner table for delicious and cosy evenings. As a meal for festive gatherings or a quick-fix solution on busy days, this dish is made to satisfy you and your loved ones.
What goes well with spaghetti in tomato sauce?
Choosing the right sides to go with the spaghetti in tomato sauce can turn a simple pasta meal into a sophisticated event. To make the dish even more enjoyable, serve it with sides that match its rich taste. A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the tomato sauce. Crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia makes for a delectable side, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
Get creative with the recipe
We have a few pointers for personalising the dish to your liking. Season well with dried oregano and sweet paprika, and for a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also infuse the sauce with aromatic herbs like oregano or thyme.
Try incorporating diced peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini into the sauce for added texture and flavour. If you sauté them before adding them to the sauce, they will release their natural sugars and imbue the dish with a more pronounced flavour.
