Spaghetti Tomato Sauce
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti with rich tomato sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat a pan, add olive oil, and lightly brown the chopped onion and green pepper.
- Add the minced garlic and ground meat, cooking until the meat is light brown.
- Add oregano, red pepper, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook until the mixture sticks to the pan, continuously mixing.
- Add two cans (12 ounces) of water to the paste mixture and blend well.
- Add chopped fresh tomatoes and heat thoroughly.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme in addition to oregano. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground round with lentils or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes. Adjust the salt based on your preference and the saltiness of your tomato paste. Always taste as you go for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti tomato sauce over your favorite pasta, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. It pairs beautifully with 'Sour' Salad Dressing (Italian)(Zachary'S Favorite Salad Dressing) for a refreshing side salad. You can also enjoy it with garlic bread or as a topping for pizza. Browse more Italian recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain the sauce's consistency. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Tomato Sauce contains roughly 27 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% 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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great substitute and can make the sauce easier to prepare. Use diced or crushed canned tomatoes for a smoother sauce, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to maintain the sauce's consistency.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this sauce, simply replace the ground round with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the substitute you choose, ensuring everything is cooked through and well combined.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, add a little water, vegetable broth, or even a splash of red wine to thin it out. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to incorporate the additional liquid. This will help achieve the desired consistency while maintaining flavor.
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).