Mediterranean Diet Classic Tomato Spaghetti
Experience the epitome of rustic Mediterranean flavor with this Classic Tomato Spaghetti recipe, a deliciously simple dish rooted in wholesome ingredients. Perfectly al dente spaghetti is tossed in a vibrant sauce made with fragrant garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. A hint of crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick, while fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese bring the dish to life with irresistible aroma and flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that celebrates the Mediterranean diet's focus on fresh, nutrient-packed ingredients. Light, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this dish is bound to become a go-to for pasta lovers seeking a healthy, satisfying meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 4 units Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 0.5 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground
- 0.5 cup Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the spaghetti with the tomato mixture, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the sauce clings nicely to the pasta.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil.
Divide the spaghetti among serving bowls and top each with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Mediterranean Diet Classic Tomato Spaghetti!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1277 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 71.9 g | 92% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.7 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 3064 mg | 133% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 124.0 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.9 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.9 g | ||
| Protein | 41.7 g | 83% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 652 mg | 50% | |
| Iron | 9.3 mg | 52% | |
| Potassium | 1165 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
