Old-school spaghetti*

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions for al dente pasta. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. This starchy water will help thicken and bind the sauce to the pasta.
2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the oregano, basil, and sugar (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let the sauce cook, the more concentrated and flavorful it will become.
4. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a little heat, you can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. For a richer flavor, stir in the red wine and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to cook off the alcohol. This step adds a subtle depth to the sauce, which enhances its overall flavor.
5. Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. The pasta should be well-coated, and the sauce should cling to the noodles.
6. Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Old-School Spaghetti:

• Use Good Quality Tomatoes: The base of the sauce is the tomato, so using good quality canned tomatoes (or even fresh tomatoes when they’re in season) is key to making a rich and flavorful sauce. Look for San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic Italian taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: One of the most important steps in making a perfect bowl of spaghetti is cooking the pasta to al dente. The pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Don’t forget to reserve some of the pasta water—it can help thicken the sauce and make it cling to the noodles better.
• Simmer the Sauce Slowly: Give the sauce time to develop. While this recipe only simmers for 15-20 minutes, you can let it go longer if you have the time. The longer the sauce simmers, the deeper the flavors will get. Just make sure to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
• Add Flavorful Extras: Old-school spaghetti is versatile, so feel free to get creative! Add in some meatballs, sausages, or even grilled vegetables if you like. If you prefer a meat sauce, you can brown some ground beef or Italian sausage in the pan before adding the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions:

Old-school spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few classic sides:

• Garlic Bread: Toasted, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to a plate of spaghetti. The crispy bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce left on your plate.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crispy romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing balances the richness of the spaghetti.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers are a great way to add some color and nutrition to your meal.

Why Old-School Spaghetti Is Timeless:

What makes old-school spaghetti so special is its simplicity. It’s not about fancy ingredients or complicated techniques; it’s about taking a handful of everyday ingredients and turning them into something delicious. The balance of flavors, the richness of the sauce, and the comfort of the pasta make this dish an enduring favorite for so many.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving a simple meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, old-school spaghetti is always the right choice. It’s a dish that has stood the test of time, passed down through generations, and continues to bring joy to tables everywhere. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of pasta that feels like home.