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A delicious plate of spicy spaghetti adorned with fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan on a wooden table.
Alyssa

Spicy Spaghetti

An easy dinner made with fresh cherry tomatoes, a kick of red pepper flakes, and a delicious blend of fresh basil and parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz. spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 2 tsp red pepper flakes (use less if you're sensitive to spice)
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or mini San Marzanos if available)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 2 Tbsp fresh chopped basil (plus more for topping)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add spaghetti. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of the water. Set aside.
  2. While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir red pepper flakes into onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Add tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to crush the tomatoes slightly.
  5. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce, along with grated parmesan and chopped basil. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. Serve topped with more parmesan, basil, and red pepper flakes.