Spaghetti Bolognese with Garlic Bread and Fresh Salad
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti Bolognese:
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb spaghetti
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
For the Garlic Bread:
4 slices of French or Italian bread
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried parsley
Salt to taste
For the Fresh Salad:
Mixed lettuce (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp light salad dressing (such as olive oil and lemon vinaigrette)
Instructions:
For the Spaghetti Bolognese:
In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Serve the pasta topped with the Bolognese sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
For the Garlic Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread slices.
Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
For the Fresh Salad:
Toss the lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with the light salad dressing and toss to combine.
To Serve:
Plate the spaghetti with a generous amount of sauce, adding the garlic bread on the side.
Serve the fresh salad in a small bowl alongside the pasta, for a balanced and comforting meal.
Enjoy your cozy, homey meal!