Spaghetti Three Ways
Description
This simple spaghetti dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking with a vibrant, fresh tomato sauce. The key ingredients include whole canned tomatoes, aromatic garlic, onions, and a blend of dried herbs like oregano and thyme. The flavor profile is bright, slightly sweet, and deeply savory, with a texture that balances tender al dente pasta against a smooth, chunky sauce. It is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings where comfort food is king. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that feels homemade without the fuss. Serve it as a standalone main or pair with a simple green salad for a complete, wholesome dinner.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions.
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Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the starchy pasta water.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the whole tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon, and simmer for 5 minutes.
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Stir in the sugar, salt, and ground pepper to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with the sauce.
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Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
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Serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 74.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.8g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 8.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.0g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2.3g10%
- Sugars 6.4g
- Protein 1.8g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a smoother sauce, you can crush the tomatoes by hand or blend them briefly before adding to the skillet.
If you prefer a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore creaminess.
Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the skillet when cooking the onions for added nutrition and color.