Are you ready to create a culinary masterpiece that's as beautiful as it is delicious? Then look no further! This Carta di Musica recipe, a delightful Italian pasta dish, is a perfect blend of simple ingredients and vibrant flavors. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this easy recipe. This healthy meal is packed with fresh ingredients and is sure to become one of your best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta 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, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; low and slow is key!
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and basil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors!
Tips for the Best Carta di Musica:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your dish will taste. Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes whenever possible.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a great dish. It should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil to your liking.
- Add some protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked sausage, meatballs, or chicken to the sauce.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Carta di Musica: Omit the meat and add a handful of spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Carta di Musica: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Carta di Musica: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
This delicious and easy Carta di Musica recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable meal. It’s a recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen, bringing joy and deliciousness to your table. Enjoy!