January 4 is National Spaghetti Day. While it shows up on the National Day list, it isn’t a “real” National Day, which takes an act of Congress, and no one knows who invented it or when it was first celebrated. But I don’t care! I love spaghetti and will happily celebrate it!
On a cold, winter day, there is nothing better than the aroma of a bubbly pot of homemade spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove. It’s always been my go-to comfort meal, served with crusty garlic bread and a crispy-fresh garden salad. My love of the Italian dish began when I was a child and my father would make his own delicious red sauce, the same recipe I use today. It is one of my family’s favorite meals, especially with meatballs. Even now that my kids are grown adults, one of my daughter’s friends still calls her to ask, “When’s your mom making spaghetti?”
What is the secret of my special sauce? I use only the freshest and finest ingredients – fragrant basil and oregano from my herb garden, garlic, green pepper, onion, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, ground beef and parmesan cheese. To add a little spice, I add crushed red pepper flakes (just like my dad would do). I also add a little sugar to offset the acidity of the tomatoes. The secret ingredient, however, is a splash of red wine which adds depth and complexity to the flavor. In a large pot, the sauce simmers on the stovetop for hours, creating a rich, tangy aroma that is warm and inviting. The final ingredient is a splash of starchy pasta water, which helps the sauce cling to the noodles. On special occasions, I will take the time to make everyone’s favorite: homemade meatballs.
What is the secret of my special sauce?
I use only the freshest and finest ingredients –
fragrant basil and oregano from my herb garden, garlic, green pepper, onion, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, ground beef and parmesan cheese.
According to historyofspaghetti.com, pasta became popular in early and mid-20th century when Italian and Sicilian immigrants came to the U.S. They immediately started promoting traditional meals from their homeland, but the true adoption happened after World War II when U.S. soldiers returned home carrying with them tales of interesting European meals. Now, spaghetti is one of America’s most popular pasta dishes.
As comforting as pasta can be, is it really good for you? According to eatingwell.com, pasta, rich in carbohydrates, is definitely not just empty calories and is rich in nutrients. It’s also a good source of energy.
My family and I enjoy many other pasta dishes, as well, including a bubbling-hot pan of lasagna, mouthwatering carbonara and creamy chicken Alfredo. And now that winter is upon us and the days are cold and snowy, a steaming plate of pasta is sure to warm you up and fill your belly.
Famous chef Rachael Ray says it best. “When you really want to show some love, keep the flowers and say it with spaghetti!”
