Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa Contea Italiano RistoranteTraditional Spaghetti Recipe

Traditional Spaghetti Recipe

Time40m
Serves4

Served in Savory Marinara.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Marinara Sauce

Garnish (optional)

Method

Cooking the Spaghetti

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 liters of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water.

  2. 2

    Cook Spaghetti

    Add 400 grams of spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  3. 3

    Drain Spaghetti

    Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.

Making the Marinara Sauce

  1. 4

    Sauté Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn.

  2. 5

    Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

    Pour in 800 grams of canned crushed tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to combine.

  3. 6

    Simmer the Sauce

    Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.

  4. 7

    Finish the Sauce

    Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 10 grams of chopped fresh basil leaves. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Combining and Serving

  1. 8

    Combine Spaghetti and Sauce

    Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Toss to coat the spaghetti evenly with the sauce.

  2. 9

    Plate and Garnish

    Serve the spaghetti in bowls. Optionally sprinkle 50 grams of grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

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