Cranberry Spaghetti is a delightful and unexpected dish that balances sweet and savory flavors in a unique way. This recipe combines the tartness of jellied cranberry sauce with classic spaghetti sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that surprises and delights everyone at the table. It’s an ideal option for those looking to try something different while enjoying a classic pasta dish.
Why We Love This Cranberry Spaghetti Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and creativity. You get to enjoy the comforting qualities of pasta along with a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and familiar. The dish is not just easy to make; it also allows for versatility in flavors as you can adjust the spices and garnishes based on your preferences. Plus, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering when you want to impress family and friends with something unique.
Ingredients about Cranberry Spaghetti
To make this delicious Cranberry Spaghetti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 can of jellied cranberry sauce
- 1 jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce (about 24 oz)
- 8 oz of angel hair pasta
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How to Make Cranberry Spaghetti Directions
Making Cranberry Spaghetti is straightforward and quick, allowing you to bring a tasty meal to your table in no time.
- Cook the angel hair pasta: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your angel hair pasta and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it; angel hair cooks quickly! Check for tenderness, then drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate medium-sized pot, combine the jellied cranberry sauce and the spaghetti sauce. Set the pot over medium heat. Stir frequently to incorporate the two sauces as they warm. This should take around 5 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
- Season the sauce: Once your sauce is heated, taste it and then season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, the flavor balance is key here, so feel free to add more if needed.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Take your drained angel hair pasta and gently toss it with the warmed sauce. Ensure each strand of pasta is coated evenly with the delicious sauce mixture. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Serve it up: There’s nothing like enjoying a plate of freshly made spaghetti. Serve your Cranberry Spaghetti immediately while hot. If you would like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and visual appeal. Fresh herbs can also be a wonderful garnish for a touch of color.
How to Serve Cranberry Spaghetti
When it comes to serving your Cranberry Spaghetti, simplicity can go a long way. Serve the pasta directly from the pot into individual bowls or on a large platter. This allows everyone to help themselves.
Garnishing your dish can elevate the presentation, so consider adding some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a delightful creaminess and complements the tartness of the cranberry sauce. Chopped fresh parsley or basil can also enhance the visual appeal of the dish while adding a hint of freshness.
Pair this unique spaghetti with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. The combination of the sweet-tart sauce and the savory sides creates a well-rounded dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Expert Tips: Cranberry Spaghetti
- Choosing the right sauce: The type of spaghetti sauce you choose greatly impacts the overall flavor of your dish. Opt for a sauce that you already enjoy to make the best combination with the cranberry sauce.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, consider using a low-sugar or no-sugar-added jellied cranberry sauce. Alternatively, you can balance the sweetness by adding more spices like crushed red pepper or additional black pepper.
- Make it a meal: Want to make it more substantial? You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cooking pasta perfectly: To achieve the perfect texture, avoid overcooking the angel hair pasta. It should be al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite when you chew it.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can give your dish a deeper flavor. You can add them while the sauce is warming for an aromatic touch.
How to Store Cranberry Spaghetti
Storing leftover Cranberry Spaghetti is easy. First, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. The dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the cooled spaghetti in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. Frozen Cranberry Spaghetti can last for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. If the sauce has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of water or additional sauce to bring the consistency back.
Variation of Cranberry Spaghetti
One of the beauties of Cranberry Spaghetti is its versatility. Feel free to mix and match ingredients or adjust the preparation to suit your tastes.
- Vegetarian addition: For a vegetarian twist, add sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the sauce mixture. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the nutritional content of your meal.
- Protein-packed version: To make it heartier, you can include grilled chicken breast or cooked ground turkey. Simply stir in the protein after mixing the pasta with the sauce for a fulfilling meal.
- Nutty crunch: For added texture, you may sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on the top before serving. The nutty flavors pair beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
- Sour cherry twist: For a different flavor profile, consider substituting the jellied cranberry sauce with a jar of sour cherry preserves. It will still maintain that sweet-sour balance, giving you a fresh take on the dish.
- Herb-infused sauce: You can make the sauce more interesting by adding finely chopped fresh herbs like oregano or thyme while it’s warming. This will elevate the dish while introducing new aromas.
FAQ
What is Cranberry Spaghetti?
Cranberry Spaghetti is a creative pasta dish that combines jellied cranberry sauce with spaghetti sauce, creating a unique flavor balance between sweet and savory.
How long does it take to make Cranberry Spaghetti?
From start to finish, you can make Cranberry Spaghetti in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient meal option.
Can I use different types of pasta for Cranberry Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other pasta varieties, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for thicker pasta.
Is Cranberry Spaghetti suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Spaghetti in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for easy meals during the week.
Can I make Cranberry Spaghetti vegan?
Yes! Just use a vegan spaghetti sauce and skip the Parmesan cheese or find a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegan version.
Cranberry Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 can jellied cranberry sauce
- 24 oz jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce Choose a sauce you enjoy
- 8 oz angel hair pasta Cooks quickly; check for tenderness
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving) Adds creaminess
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, add the angel hair pasta and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
Preparing Sauce
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the jellied cranberry sauce and spaghetti sauce, and set over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until the mixture is heated through, approximately 5 minutes.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as preferred.
Combining and Serving
- Toss the drained angel hair pasta with the warmed sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.
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