Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in creating culinary magic. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the spaghetti for linguine or add a pinch of oregano for an extra layer of flavor—just as my grandmother might have done when the fresh herbs from her garden were plentiful.
Instructions
Crafting this dish is akin to a cherished family tradition, one that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Here’s how you do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, simmering gently. Season with salt and pepper, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 10 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked spaghetti, ensuring each strand is coated with the sauce. Stir in the basil leaves just before serving to keep their vibrant flavor intact.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Revel in the simplicity and warmth that each bite offers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
