Are you dreaming of a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner? This Audrey Hepburn Spaghetti recipe is the answer. Inspired by the timeless grace and effortless style of the iconic actress, this dish is quick, healthy, and utterly delicious. It's the perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can be both satisfying and sophisticated. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is a true testament to the beauty of uncomplicated food. Let's dive in and create a little bit of Audrey magic in your kitchen!
Ingredients: Serves 2
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be lightly golden.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the canned diced tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Stir in basil and cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and most of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy your taste of old-world charm!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Audrey Hepburn Spaghetti:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to this recipe. It should have a slight bite to it.
- Use good quality olive oil: The olive oil is a key flavor component, so use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the sauce.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or ricotta cheese at the end for a creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 10-12 grams Fat: 18-20 grams Carbohydrates: 55-60 grams
This simple yet elegant Audrey Hepburn Spaghetti recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It's a dish that's both healthy and delicious, offering a taste of classic Italian flavors with a touch of Hollywood glamour. Enjoy the process of creating this effortless, yet stunning dish, and savour every bite!