Spaghetti Carrettiera
A vibrant Italian pasta dish featuring garlic, fresh basil, and tomatoes, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that highlights Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the garlic cloves slightly in olive oil in an uncovered saucepan.
- Add basil leaves, chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes to develop flavors.
- Combine the sauce with cooked al dente pasta in a large hot bowl.
- Mix well and top with Parmesan cheese to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when browning the garlic. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount as it's more concentrated. You can substitute canned tomatoes with fresh ones when in season, just be sure to peel them first. For a heartier dish, add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spaghetti Carrettiera with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a light green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Nonna'S Rice Balls or Stuffed Artichokes Roman Style to enhance your Italian dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to a skillet over medium heat, and stir until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Carrettiera contains roughly 239 calories, with 13g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 841mg per serving (37% 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 this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative. The sauce itself is naturally vegan and packed with flavor from the garlic and basil.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While traditional spaghetti is great, you can also use other types of pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture and to hold up against the sauce.
How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can also be added for extra aroma and taste.
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).