Spaghetti bolognaise
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish featuring a rich meat sauce made with ground beef, zucchini, and carrots, served over tender pasta. This hearty meal blends savory flavours and is great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp olive oil1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 large zucchini
1 carrot
14 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1/3 cup pasta sauce
12 oz pasta
2 tbsp fresh parsley
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has been a favorite in households worldwide. It is a hearty and flavorful meal featuring a rich meat sauce served over tender pasta. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious dish.
Instructions:
- Finely chop the onion and carrot.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Dice the zucchinis.
- Chop the fresh parsley.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced zucchini and finely chopped carrot to the skillet.
- Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet.
- Add the ground beef to the center and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Ensure the meat is fully cooked and there are no pink parts remaining.
- Once the ground beef is cooked, mix it with the sautéed vegetables.
- Stir in 1/3 cup of pasta sauce and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Bolognese sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the spaghetti Bolognese to plates or a large serving dish.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
Congratulations! You've just made a delightful plate of Spaghetti Bolognese. This dish is perfect on its own or paired with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of this classic meal with family and friends.
Spaghetti bolognaise FAQ:
A large skillet or sauté pan (at least 12 inches in diameter) is recommended for cooking the vegetables and browning the ground beef. This allows enough space for even cooking and proper mixing with the pasta.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until it is al dente. Make sure to taste it to ensure it reaches your desired texture.
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Ensure to adjust cooking times slightly if using leaner meats.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
The ground beef should be cooked through with no pink remaining and should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Tips:
- For a more flavorful sauce, let the Bolognese simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste during cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or celery to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese as a topping for an authentic Italian touch.
- Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold the sauce better and provide a nice texture.
- For an even healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 630kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 72g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 10g
Fat 24g
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