Nutritional Breakdown of Homemade Spaghetti

Homemade spaghetti is a classic comfort food that many people love to enjoy. It’s a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sauces and ingredients. When it comes to the nutritional breakdown of homemade spaghetti, it’s important to consider not only the pasta itself, but also the sauces and toppings that go along with it.

First, let’s take a look at the nutritional breakdown of the basic components of homemade spaghetti:

– Spaghetti noodles: A 1-cup serving of cooked spaghetti noodles has approximately 220 calories, 43g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 8g of protein. While pasta is often demonized for being high in carbohydrates, it can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.

– Tomato sauce: A 1-cup serving of basic tomato sauce has around 70 calories, 14g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 3g of protein. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene.

– Cheese: Many people like to top their homemade spaghetti with a sprinkle of Parmesan or other cheese. A 1-ounce serving of Parmesan cheese has about 110 calories, 1g of carbohydrates, and 7g of protein. Cheese can add flavor and protein to the dish, but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat content.

In addition to these basic components, homemade spaghetti can be customized with a variety of ingredients like veggies, meat, and herbs, which can impact the overall nutrition of the dish.

Now, let’s move on to a classic and delicious sauce recipe for homemade spaghetti:

Classic Marinara Sauce

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a smooth sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.

4. Serve the marinara sauce over cooked spaghetti noodles, and top with your choice of cheese, fresh herbs, or meatballs.

This classic marinara sauce is simple to make and packed with flavor. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used for homemade spaghetti, pizza, or as a dip for breadsticks. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought sauces that may contain added sugars and preservatives.

In conclusion, homemade spaghetti can be a nutritious and satisfying meal when made with wholesome ingredients and balanced portions. By being mindful of the nutritional breakdown of the components and choosing a homemade sauce like marinara, you can enjoy this classic comfort food as part of a healthy diet.