Spaghetti:
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Combine the spaghetti with the sauce, tossing well to coat. Serve garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
Garlic Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the baguette or Italian bread in half lengthwise. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Bake: Place the bread, butter side up, on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. For extra browning, you can broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Cut the garlic bread into pieces and serve alongside the spaghetti.
Tips for Success:
- Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. If the sauce seems too thick when combining with the pasta, add a little pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Sauce Flavor: For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering process or incorporating a tablespoon of tomato paste for depth of flavor.
- Garlic Bread Variations: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread before baking for a cheesy garlic bread.
This classic spaghetti and garlic bread meal is simple, satisfying, and sure to please any crowd. It’s a testament to the power of quality ingredients and the joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy your meal!