Pregnancy Friendly Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Comfort food doesn't get much more satisfying than a bowl of spaghetti coated in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce — and this version is the kind of recipe you'll want on repeat. San Marzano tomatoes bring a naturally sweet, low-acid depth that makes the sauce taste like it simmered all day, even though it comes together in about 20 minutes. Garlic is coaxed slowly in olive oil until pale golden and fragrant, building a savory base without any harsh bite, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just enough warmth. Fresh basil stirred in at the end keeps things bright and aromatic, and a finishing drizzle of good olive oil pulls the whole dish together beautifully. During pregnancy, keeping meals simple, wholesome, and made from recognizable ingredients matters — and every component here is straightforward, with no hidden additives or processed shortcuts to worry about. The optional Parmesan on top adds a salty, savory finish and a little extra calcium, which is always a welcome bonus. It's the kind of nourishing, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
For the sauce
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled san marzano tomatoes
- ½ tsp sugar
- salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For serving
- 1–2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing
- parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add the kosher salt, then the spaghetti, and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente — tender with a slight resistance at the center, about 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Drain the spaghetti through a colander and set aside.
- 2
While the pasta water heats, pour the canned tomatoes into a large bowl and crush them by hand, breaking them into rough, uneven pieces. Set aside.
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