When it comes to vibrant and flavorful cuisine, Dominican cooking stands out with its unique blend of influences from Taino, African, and Spanish cultures. Amongst its treasures, Dominican Spaghetti holds a special place. This dish is a vibrant medley of flavors, textures, and nutritional ingredients that will transport you directly to the sunny shores of the Dominican Republic. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a gathering, Dominican Spaghetti is an excellent choice to showcase your culinary skills.
Why We Love This Dominican Spaghetti Recipe
What makes Dominican Spaghetti unforgettable? First, it’s the flavorful sauce that dances on your taste buds, bringing together the sweetness of tomato and the zest from fresh vegetables. Additionally, the use of sazón—a popular seasoning blend—enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful. You will find comfort in the creamy addition of evaporated milk and the savory touch from olives. It’s a perfect harmony of ingredients that come together to create a wholesome meal. Not to mention, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a homemade culinary masterpiece in no time.
Ingredients about Dominican Spaghetti
To get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s everything you will need to whip up an authentic Dominican Spaghetti dish that serves around four people.
- 350 g spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 green pepper, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sazón
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cube chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup olives, cut into halves
- 1/2 cup cooking pasta water
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
With these ingredients, you are well on your way to creating a delightful dish.
How to Make Dominican Spaghetti Directions
Cooking Dominican Spaghetti is an enjoyable experience that can brighten your kitchen with delicious aromas. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to bring this dish to life:
- Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add salt to the water, then gently place your 350 g of spaghetti in the pot. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Save the Pasta Water: Before you drain the spaghetti, make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. This starchy water will play a crucial role in perfecting your sauce.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over low to medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add 2 minced cloves of garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds or until you can smell the garlic.
- Sauté Onions and Peppers: Add the minced onion and green pepper to the pan. Cook for one minute, allowing them to soften slightly.
- Incorporate Seasonings: Next, sprinkle in the sazón, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine, followed by the addition of 1/3 cup tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce. Let this mixture cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Creaminess: Now, pour in the 1/4 cup of evaporated milk and add 1 tablespoon of butter along with the chicken stock cube. Then, mix in the reserved pasta water and let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine with Pasta: After the sauce is well combined, it’s time to gently fold in your drained spaghetti along with 1/4 cup of olives that you’ve cut in half. Ensure each strand of spaghetti is coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Final Touches: To finish, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil on top. This adds a touch of aromatic freshness that brightens the dish.
Your delicious Dominican Spaghetti is now ready to be served. The entire cooking process should take around 30 minutes from start to finish.
How to Serve Dominican Spaghetti
Once your Dominican Spaghetti is ready, you’ll want to present it beautifully. This dish shines both in flavor and appearance, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Warm Plates: Serve the spaghetti on warmed plates to maintain its heat. This elevates the dining experience.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil gives this dish an appealing look. You can also add some grated cheese for a creamy touch or crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Side Dishes: Pair your spaghetti with a fresh green salad to balance the meal. A simple vinaigrette complements the flavors of the pasta nicely.
- Beverage Pairing: For beverages, consider serving iced tea or a refreshing fruit punch, both of which harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the dish.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, don’t worry; this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Expert Tips: Dominican Spaghetti
Making Dominican Spaghetti is relatively straightforward, but here are some expert tips that will help you achieve the best results:
- Perfect Pasta: Don’t overcook the spaghetti. Aim for al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs when possible. Freshness enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your personal taste. If you like things spicier, consider adding some diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the chicken stock cube or replace it with a vegetable stock cube.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional veggies like carrots or zucchini, or even add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
How to Store Dominican Spaghetti
Storing leftover Dominican Spaghetti is easy, ensuring you can enjoy this flavorful dish again later. Here’s how to do it:
- Let it Cool: Allow the spaghetti to cool down to room temperature. This step helps prevent condensation and sogginess when stored.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the spaghetti into airtight containers. You can also use resealable plastic bags if you don’t have containers handy.
- Refrigeration: Store the spaghetti in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just add a splash of water or milk while reheating to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing your Dominican Spaghetti. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variation of Dominican Spaghetti
While the classic Dominican Spaghetti is delicious on its own, you can explore various variations to keep things exciting. Here are a few ideas:
- Seafood Variation: Incorporate shrimp or other seafood to add a delightful twist. Cook the seafood separately and mix it in right before serving.
- Vegetable Medley: Add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make it a veggie-loaded dish.
- Creamy Spin: For a richer dish, consider adding more cream or a splash of cream cheese into the sauce. This makes it ultra-creamy and satisfying.
- Sazon Alternatives: If sazón is not available, substitute it with your favorite blend of herbs and spices. Italian seasoning can also add a lovely flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in some grated cheese before serving or top each serving with mozzarella for a cheesy finish.
FAQ
What is Dominican Spaghetti?
Dominican Spaghetti is a flavorful pasta dish originating from the Dominican Republic. It combines spaghetti noodles with a vibrant tomato-based sauce, vegetables, and olives for a delicious meal.
How long does it take to make Dominican Spaghetti?
From start to finish, it takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook Dominican Spaghetti. This makes it a quick and easy weeknight dinner option.
Can I add protein to Dominican Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or ground beef to your Dominican Spaghetti for additional protein, making it a more filling meal.
How can I make Dominican Spaghetti vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Dominican Spaghetti, simply omit the chicken stock or replace it with a vegetable stock cube. You can also load it with vegetables for added nutrients.
Dominican Spaghetti
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Ingredients
- 350 g spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 green pepper, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon sazón
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cube chicken stock
- 1/2 cup cooking pasta water
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup olives, cut into halves
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over low to medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Add minced onion and green pepper to the pan, cooking for one minute.
- Sprinkle in sazón, black pepper, and salt. Stir in tomato paste, sugar, and tomato sauce, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
- Incorporate evaporated milk, butter, and the chicken stock cube, followed by the reserved pasta water. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
Combining and Serving
- Gently fold in the drained spaghetti and olives, ensuring they are coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.
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