Easy Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce Recipe

Have you ever craved a comforting bowl of pasta that warms both the heart and soul? Spaghetti with roasted garlic tomato sauce is that dish, bursting with rich flavors and a delightful aroma that invites everyone to the table. The combination of roasted garlic and ripe tomatoes creates a savory experience that’s hard to resist.

This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, coated in a luscious sauce that highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the depth of roasted garlic. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish promises to impress and satisfy every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days when you need a delicious meal without the hassle.
• Flavorful Ingredients: With the sweetness of ripe tomatoes combined with the rich depth of roasted garlic, every bite bursts with flavor that will leave you wanting more.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this spaghetti to suit your taste by adding vegetables, proteins like chicken or shrimp, or even your favorite herbs.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients and low in calories, this dish offers a wholesome meal option without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients for Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Use about 12 ounces of dried spaghetti for four servings; opt for whole wheat for extra fiber if desired.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Choose about 4 cups of ripe tomatoes; Roma or San Marzano varieties work best for their sweetness.
• Garlic: You will need one whole head of fresh garlic; roasting enhances its flavor and gives it a sweet undertone.
• Olive Oil: Use about two tablespoons; extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves are essential; they add a burst of freshness as a garnish just before serving.

For the Sauce:

• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these simple pantry staples enhance all the flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it prepares your garlic for roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Garlic

Cut off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle it with olive oil and wrap it in foil. Place it in the oven for about 30 minutes until soft and golden.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

While the garlic roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and diced tomatoes. Cook them down for about five minutes until they begin breaking down. Squeeze out the roasted garlic into the skillet.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with your tomato-garlic mixture. Toss well to combine; if needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer to plates or bowls. Garnish each serving generously with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and high-quality olive oil will significantly enhance your sauce’s flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente texture; this prevents mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in sauces.
• Add Cheese Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top can elevate flavors further if desired.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they should last up to three days.

Mistakes to avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: One of the most common mistakes when making Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce is overcooking the pasta. Always cook your spaghetti until it reaches al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This ensures that the pasta retains its texture and won’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. To achieve this, check the cooking time on the package and taste a strand just before draining. Remember, you can always finish cooking it slightly in the sauce.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of tomatoes plays a crucial role in your Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce. Using canned or fresh tomatoes that are not ripe or flavorful can lead to a bland sauce. Always opt for high-quality San Marzano tomatoes or vine-ripened options if you’re using fresh ones. Taste them before using; a sweet and juicy tomato will elevate your dish significantly.
• Skimping on Garlic: Roasted garlic is a star ingredient in this recipe, so don’t hold back! Many home cooks underestimate garlic’s ability to enhance flavor. When preparing your sauce, ensure you roast enough garlic cloves until they turn soft and caramelized. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds richness to your Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce. If you’re unsure how much to use, start with a whole bulb for a robust flavor.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can transform your Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce from ordinary to extraordinary. Don’t skip adding fresh basil or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of flavor and color. Dried herbs lack the vibrancy of fresh ones and may not provide the same aromatic qualities. Always use freshly chopped herbs as a finishing touch for an authentic taste that elevates your dish.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Every ingredient in your Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce needs proper seasoning. It’s easy to overlook salt and pepper, but they play an essential role in bringing out flavors. After combining your roasted garlic and tomatoes, taste the sauce before serving. Adjust with salt and black pepper as needed; consider adding red pepper flakes for some heat if desired.

Ingredients

To prepare Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

– 400g spaghetti

– 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped

– 1 head of garlic

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh basil leaves

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness, creating a rich flavor in the sauce. Use fresh tomatoes for the best taste, or canned tomatoes as an alternative if needed.

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to create delicious Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil.

3. Place the wrapped garlic in the oven and roast for about 30 minutes, until soft and golden.

4. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.

5. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to break down.

6. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the skillet, mix well, and season with salt and pepper.

7. Once the spaghetti is cooked al dente, drain it and toss it in the skillet with the sauce.

8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
• A glass of red wine enhances the meal beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil in Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh basil when making Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce. However, fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that complements roasted garlic perfectly. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount as they are more concentrated in flavor—about one-third of what you’d use for fresh.

How can I make Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce vegetarian-friendly?

This dish is already vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. To ensure it aligns with specific dietary preferences, always check that your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you want it to be strictly vegetarian.

What types of tomatoes work best for this recipe?

For Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce, ripe Roma or San Marzano tomatoes are ideal due to their rich flavor and lower moisture content. However, any vine-ripened variety will work well too! Canned tomatoes can be used as an alternative when fresh ones are not available.

Can I store leftovers of Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce?

Absolutely! You can store leftovers of Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave before serving again.

Conclusion for Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce

In conclusion, preparing Spaghetti with Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce is simple yet rewarding. This dish combines easy-to-find ingredients that come together for a delightful meal bursting with flavor. The roasted garlic adds depth while fresh tomatoes contribute brightness to every bite. You can serve this pasta dish alongside salads or crusty bread for a complete dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table! Don’t forget to customize it based on your preferences to make each serving unique!