Spaghetti And Sauce
A hearty spaghetti dish topped with a rich tomato sauce, featuring fresh vegetables and simple seasonings, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With 1 1/2 cups water, simmer the bell pepper, onion, mushrooms, and celery until tender.
- Chop the garlic and add it to the pan.
- Add the spices: 1/4 teaspoon parsley and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Add the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato soup to the pan.
- Stir all the ingredients together.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked and drained spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer longer after adding the canned ingredients. You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if necessary, though fresh garlic provides a more potent flavor. Consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or using whole canned tomatoes for a chunkier texture. This recipe can also be adapted for vegan diets by ensuring all canned products are free from animal-derived ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti topped with the sauce, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, like Gramma Ginny's Rotini Salad, for a complete meal. A glass of red wine can also enhance the dining experience, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For spaghetti, add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out as you reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Sauce contains roughly 238 calories, with 7g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (234% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1901mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
What can I add to the sauce for extra protein?
You can add ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the sauce while it simmers for a heartier meal. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider adding lentils or chickpeas, which provide protein and pair well with the flavors of the sauce.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Each type will offer a different texture and presentation while still allowing the sauce to adhere beautifully. Experimenting with various pasta shapes can make the dish more fun and appealing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).