
Classic Italian comfort food doesn't get much more satisfying than a bowl of spaghetti tossed in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce — and this version is naturally free of red meat without any awkward substitutions or compromises. The sauce starts with thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes bloomed in good olive oil, which builds a deeply savory base before the San Marzano tomatoes even hit the pan. Crushing the tomatoes by hand keeps the texture rustic and uneven, which means the sauce clings to every strand of pasta in the most satisfying way. A slow simmer of about 20 minutes concentrates the flavor and lets the oil rise to the surface — a small visual cue that tells you the sauce is exactly where it needs to be. Finishing with torn fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil keeps everything bright and aromatic. For anyone navigating a red meat allergy, this dish is a reminder that a genuinely craveable weeknight dinner doesn't require any workarounds — just quality pantry staples and a little patience at the stove.
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parmesan cheese
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.
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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