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Weeknight Spaghetti

Weeknight Spaghetti
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Weeknight Spaghetti is a quick and comforting pasta dish ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. Using simple pantry staples, this recipe delivers a flavorful, hearty meal that’s kid-friendly and easily customizable. With minimal cleanup and satisfying flavors, it’s an ideal dinner for any hectic weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti pasta

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra olive oil, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, and set the pasta aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to develop flavors.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine thoroughly. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles evenly and smoothly.
  4. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley. Plate the spaghetti, then generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and enhance sauce adhesion.
  • Use fresh minced garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain ideal texture and prevent mushiness.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to personalize the level of spiciness.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to keep their color and fresh taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, Italian pasta, comfort food, fast dinner

Find it online: https://withnora.com/weeknight-spaghetti/