Good Things To Put In Spaghetti Sauce
Spaghetti is a staple dish in many households, and for good reason. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also delicious and satisfying. One of the key components of a great spaghetti dish is the sauce. A good spaghetti sauce can take your meal from average to outstanding, and there are many things you can add to your sauce to make it even better. In this article, we'll explore some of the best things to put in spaghetti sauce to take it to the next level.
Tomatoes
The main ingredient in any spaghetti sauce is tomatoes. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is an antioxidant that helps fight cancer. They are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. There are many ways to incorporate tomatoes into your sauce. You can use fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes, or even tomato paste. If you're using fresh tomatoes, make sure to peel and seed them before adding them to your sauce.
Garlic
Garlic is a staple ingredient in Italian cuisine and adds a delicious flavor to spaghetti sauce. It also has many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. To use garlic in your sauce, chop it finely and sauté it in olive oil before adding it to the sauce. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can give your sauce a bitter taste.
Onions
Onions are another great addition to spaghetti sauce. They add a sweet and savory flavor to the sauce and are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. To use onions in your sauce, chop them finely and sauté them in olive oil before adding them to the sauce. You can also use shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
Herbs
Herbs are a great way to add flavor to your spaghetti sauce without adding extra calories or salt. Some of the best herbs to use in spaghetti sauce include basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. You can use fresh herbs or dried herbs, depending on what you have on hand. Just be sure to add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
Meat
Adding meat to your spaghetti sauce is a great way to make it more filling and satisfying. You can use ground beef, ground turkey, or Italian sausage. Brown the meat before adding it to the sauce and make sure to drain off any excess fat. You can also add meatballs to your sauce for a delicious twist.
Wine
Adding wine to your spaghetti sauce is a great way to enhance the flavor and depth of the sauce. Red wine works best for spaghetti sauce, but you can also use white wine if you prefer. Just be sure to use a wine that you would actually drink, as the flavor will be concentrated in the sauce. Add the wine to the sauce towards the end of cooking and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
Cheese
Cheese is the perfect finishing touch for any spaghetti dish. Parmesan cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese. Grate the cheese finely and sprinkle it over the top of the spaghetti before serving. You can also add cheese to the sauce itself for a creamier texture.
As you can see, there are many things you can add to your spaghetti sauce to make it even more delicious and nutritious. Experiment with different ingredients and find the combination that works best for you. Whether you prefer a classic tomato sauce or a meaty Bolognese, there's no wrong way to make spaghetti sauce as long as it tastes good.
