Tagliatelle with Hearty Meat and Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Minced Meat: 400 grams
- Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Chopped Tomatoes: 400 grams (about 2 cups)
- Water: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Tagliatelle Pasta: 250 grams (about 2 cups)
- Herbs de Provence: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Salt: To taste
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: To taste
Directions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pan, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant.
- Cook the Meat:
- Add 400g of minced meat to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Stir in the diced pepper and chopped tomatoes. Add ½ cup of water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season with Herbs de Provence, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the tagliatelle pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Combine and Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened, toss the cooked tagliatelle pasta with the meat sauce until well combined.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated cheese or fresh herbs.
- Combine and Serve:
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread.
- Pair with a green salad for a light contrast.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil or chili oil for extra flavor.
- Serve with a glass of red wine for a cozy meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, brown the meat until it develops a slight crust.
- Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more water or simmering longer to thicken.
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer sauce.
- Add a spoonful of tomato paste for deeper tomato flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente for the perfect texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Minced Meat: High in protein and essential minerals like iron.
- Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Onions and Garlic: Provide a boost of immune-boosting compounds and flavor.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the minced meat with plant-based alternatives or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Satisfying: A rich and flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with the tagliatelle.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences and tastes.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will love.
- Classic Comfort Food: This pasta dish provides a warm and comforting meal for any occasion.