Sure! Here’s a classic recipe for Barilla spaghetti that’s simple and delicious, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal anytime.
Classic Barilla Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces Barilla Spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt—about 1 tablespoon—for flavor.
- Add the Barilla Spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to incorporate all the spices into the sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the sauce has simmered and thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness and flavor.
- Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti:
- Salting the Water: Properly salting the water is key to seasoning the pasta from within. The water should taste a bit like the sea.
- Al Dente Texture: For the best texture, cook the spaghetti just until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. This helps the pasta hold its shape and better absorb the sauce.
- Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to thicken the sauce and make it cling better to the spaghetti. Always reserve a bit before draining.
Variations: Feel free to add additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, ground meat, or vegetables to the sauce for a more hearty meal. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or leave it out if you prefer.
Enjoy your classic Barilla spaghetti with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal!
I hope this recipe turns out wonderfully for you! Let me know if you need any more cooking tips or variations.
