Spaghetti Sauce Recipe(From Nerone, Italy)
A rich and savory Italian spaghetti sauce featuring bacon, vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, and red wine, perfect for hearty pasta dishes and flavorful gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, add some extra virgin olive oil and warm it over low to medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until very well done.
- Stir in the chopped carrots and tomato paste, cooking until the mixture is very thick.
- Add the bay leaf, chopped onion, and crushed rosemary, stirring frequently.
- Add the chopped celery and continue to cook, stirring often.
- Once thoroughly warmed, add the stewed whole tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Lower the heat and cover the saucepan to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You can substitute the bacon with pancetta or omit it for a vegetarian version. If fresh rosemary is unavailable, dried rosemary works well too. For a heartier texture, mix in some sautéed mushrooms or use the dried imported mushrooms as per this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, and top with freshly grated cheese. It pairs beautifully with Favorite Lazy Lasagna for a delightful Italian feast. Consider adding a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal, making for a comforting and satisfying dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months, thawing it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Sauce Recipe(From Nerone, Italy) contains roughly 85 calories, with 5g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the sauce. You'll need about 2 to 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes to replace the canned stewed whole tomatoes, and you may want to adjust the cooking time to allow for extra moisture.
What can I serve with this spaghetti sauce?
This spaghetti sauce is versatile and can be served with various dishes. It goes well with spaghetti, of course, but also pairs nicely with zoodles for a low-carb option or as a topping for baked potatoes. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside Pork Loin Parmigiana.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat to your spaghetti sauce, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process. If you prefer a more subtle spice, chopped jalapeños can also enhance the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
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).