Spaghetti with Lean Ground Beef and Marinara Sauce

Ingredients

• whole wheat spaghetti 1.5 cups
• lean ground beef 5 oz
• marinara sauce 1/2 cup
• parmesan cheese 1 tbsp
• olive oil 1 tsp
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Method

1. Boil water and cook spaghetti. Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   Tip: Use plenty of water so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn't stick together.
2. Drain the cooked spaghetti. Once the spaghetti is cooked, carefully drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as rinsing removes the starch that helps sauce stick. Set aside.
   Tip: Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining if you want to loosen the sauce later.
3. Cook the lean ground beef. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper if desired.
   Tip: Cook the beef thoroughly and break it into small pieces for even texture.
4. Add marinara sauce to beef. Pour 1/2 cup of marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir well to combine and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
   Tip: Simmering the sauce with beef enhances the taste.
5. Combine spaghetti with sauce. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the beef and marinara sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
   Tip: Tossing pasta and sauce together while warm helps the flavors meld.
6. Serve and garnish. Transfer the spaghetti with beef and marinara sauce to a serving plate. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while hot.
   Tip: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor.

Pro tips

• Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta.
• To save time, cook the pasta and beef simultaneously in separate pots/pans.