Chef Smita Ahluwalia, Episode 630: #SimpleHomemadeRecipes Facebook Live

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat mozzarella

💰Cheaper: cheddar cheese

Reduced-fat mozzarella lowers calories while maintaining creaminess.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more affordable and has a neutral flavor.

fresh basil

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: dried basil

Spinach adds nutrients, while dried basil is cost-effective.

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in canned tomatoes, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes; simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Add cooked pasta to the sauce; toss to coat evenly.

Stir in fresh basil and butter until melted and combined.

Remove from heat and fold in mozzarella cheese until melted.

Serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese and additional basil if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens