Classic Spaghetti with Heirloom Tomato Sauce and Fresh Basil

Welcome to a fusion of flavors where classic Italian cooking meets the vibrant essence of Zimbabwe! This recipe for
Spaghetti with Heirloom Tomato Sauce and Fresh Basil not only celebrates the rich taste of heirloom tomatoes but also
highlights the importance of fresh ingredients commonly found in Zimbabwean cuisine. This dish is perfect for gatherings
with family and friends or even as a delectable offering on the Zimbo Menu marketplace, a local platform where culinary enthusiasts
can thrive.

Ingredients

400g spaghetti

6-8 ripe heirloom tomatoes, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, saving a cup of the pasta water.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce: While the spaghetti is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent (about 5 minutes).
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Incorporate Heirloom Tomatoes: Add the chopped heirloom tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine, reducing the heat to low. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can add a teaspoon of sugar at this stage to enhance the sweetness if the tomatoes are too acidic.
Season the Sauce: Taste and season your sauce with salt and pepper. If it appears too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, gently toss in the cooked spaghetti, ensuring every strand is coated in the delicious heirloom tomato sauce.
Plate and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an optional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor.

Cooking Tips

Choosing Heirloom Tomatoes: When selecting heirloom tomatoes, look for ones that are firm but slightly soft to the touch and vibrant in color. The flavor varies from sweet to tangy, making them perfect for a standout sauce.

Storage & Preparation: If you’re making this dish for a gathering or to sell on the Zimbo Menu, consider preparing the sauce a day in advance. It tastes even better when the flavors have had time to develop!

Personal Touch: Feel free to add other ingredients to your sauce such as chopped bell peppers, crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or even some locally inspired spices to give your dish a Zimbabwean flair.

This Spaghetti with Heirloom Tomato Sauce and Fresh Basil is a tribute to culinary creativity, merging Italian flavors with fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or crafting a unique dish to sell on the
Zimbo Menu marketplace, this recipe opens a world of possibilities. Download the Zimbo Menu apps today and see if this amazing platform is right for your culinary interests!

Exploring flavors in the kitchen is not just a joy; it can also be a pathway to entrepreneurship. Whether it’s for personal enjoyment or business needs, embracing these classic dishes will surely elevate any dining experience!