Cooking spaghetti is a foundational skill that’s easy to master and opens up countless possibilities for tasty meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking to refresh your pasta-making technique, this guide will walk you through the essential steps. We’ll also include a classic spaghetti recipe with marinara sauce and tips to customize it with other ingredients to make it your own.
Why Spaghetti?
Spaghetti is versatile and pairs well with many different sauces, vegetables, and proteins. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also an affordable option for feeding a crowd or making a quick solo meal. When cooked to perfection and paired with the right sauce, spaghetti can be a comforting and satisfying dish any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Spaghetti
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
For a simple spaghetti with marinara sauce, you’ll need:
- Spaghetti: 8 ounces (for 2-3 servings)
- Salt: 1 tablespoon for boiling water
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for flavor and to prevent sticking
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (14-16 ounces)
- Basil and Oregano: 1 teaspoon each, dried or fresh
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or fresh basil for garnish
Step 2: Boil Water and Salt It Well
Fill a large pot with about 4-5 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Adding salt is crucial because it enhances the flavor of the pasta. Aim for around 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water; this will make the pasta flavorful on its own.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti, stirring immediately to prevent the strands from sticking together. Refer to the cooking time on the package (usually 8-12 minutes), but check the pasta a minute or two earlier for an al dente texture.
Tip: “Al dente” means the pasta is firm to the bite, which is ideal for spaghetti, as it will continue to soften slightly after draining.
Step 4: Drain the Pasta, but Reserve Some Pasta Water
When the spaghetti is ready, use a colander to drain it, but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can help thicken and flavor the sauce later.
Classic Marinara Sauce Recipe
While the spaghetti cooks, you can prepare a classic marinara sauce. This simple, quick recipe can be made in under 20 minutes and is perfect for pairing with spaghetti.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (14-16 ounces)
- Basil and Oregano: 1 teaspoon each
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Optional: A pinch of sugar (if the tomatoes are too acidic)
Instructions:
- Heat the Oil and Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, then add basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. If you find the sauce too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps deepen the flavors. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water for the right consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Step 5: Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready and the spaghetti is cooked, add the drained spaghetti directly into the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every strand is coated with sauce. If you prefer a looser sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
While classic marinara and spaghetti is delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish:
- Protein Additions: Add cooked meatballs, grilled chicken, or Italian sausage to make it a heartier meal.
- Vegetables: Try adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil. Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick if you like a bit of heat. Pair the dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked spaghetti can become mushy, so check it early and aim for al dente.
- Salt the Water Well: Salting the water infuses flavor directly into the pasta, which improves the overall taste of the dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This often-overlooked step is useful for adjusting the sauce’s thickness and adding a bit of extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Cooking spaghetti is simple, and with this easy recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious, comforting meal in no time. Spaghetti with marinara is a classic, but the recipe can be easily adjusted with extra ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.
