Napoletana Pasta: The Ultimate Italian Recipe
Introduction to Napoletana Pasta
This Napoletana pasta recipe brings a taste of Italy right into your home kitchen. With simple, fresh ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and comforting texture.
A Personal Story Behind My Napoletana Pasta Journey
Growing up in a family that valued home-cooked meals, Italian dishes were often at the center of our dinner table. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the aroma of garlic and tomatoes, her secret ingredients to creating the perfect sauce. This Napoletana pasta recipe pays homage to those cherished memories, allowing me to share a piece of my heritage with you.
What Makes This Napoletana Pasta Recipe Special?
This Napoletana pasta recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. The use of fresh garlic and tomatoes creates a sauce that is both flavorful and healthy. Plus, the addition of parmesan cheese adds a delightful creaminess, making it a perfect comfort food. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its taste, but in its versatility; you can easily customize it to suit your preferences.
The Full Napoletana Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz (220 grams) spaghetti or bucatini
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400 grams) tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1 handful of basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 3 Tbsp grated parmesan
Instructions
- Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Start cooking the pasta 5 minutes after beginning the sauce. Cook pasta until al dente following packet instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Napoletana Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the can of tomatoes, fine salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for about 15 minutes until slightly reduced, stirring occasionally and breaking whole tomatoes if used. Tip: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Final Steps: Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to taste. Combine the drained pasta with fresh basil in the pan. Toss until well mixed. Add reserved starchy water for juicier pasta. Serve with grated parmesan, torn basil leaves, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Napoletana Pasta
This Napoletana pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different herbs to elevate the flavors. Don’t hesitate to turn this dish into a meat sauce by adding ground beef for a more filling option. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Napoletana Pasta
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without gluten.
- How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze Napoletana pasta? Yes, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for up to 3 months.
Napoletana Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz 220 grams spaghetti or bucatini
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium-sized onion finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 14 oz/400 grams tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1 handful of basil leaves chopped or torn
- 3 Tbsp grated parmesan
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta.
- Heat olive oil, add garlic, then tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce, add basil and reserved water.