Spaghetti Sauce with Cauliflower

Ingredients and Weight:

• Spaghetti: 500g
• Cauliflower: 1 large head (about 500g)
• Ground beef: 500g
• Onion: 1 large (about 200g)
• Red bell pepper: 1 (about 150g)
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves
• Tomato sauce: 1 cup
• Dried oregano: 1 tsp
• Dried basil: 1 tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Sugar: 1/2 tsp (optional)
• Black pepper: to taste

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 60 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Break the spaghetti into small pieces and set aside.
3. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and steam until tender-crisp. Set aside.
4. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
5. Add the red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, sugar (if using), and black pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
7. Combine the spaghetti, cauliflower, and the sauce in a baking dish. Toss gently to mix.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the spaghetti is cooked through.
9. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Nutritional Information: (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450-500 calories per serving (depending on the addition of sugar)
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 55-60g
• Protein: 25-30g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creative fusion of traditional spaghetti sauce with cauliflower.
• Hearty and flavorful, with a blend of tomato and herb flavors.
• A healthy option with the addition of cauliflower, rich in vitamins and fiber.

User Comments:

1. "This is an innovative way to add more veggies to spaghetti sauce! The cauliflower gives it a nice crunch."
2. "The combination of flavors is excellent! The dish is hearty and satisfying."
3. "I love how easy this recipe is to make. It's a great weeknight meal."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to steam the cauliflower until tender-crisp to maintain its texture and flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning according to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, puree a portion of the cooked sauce in a blender before combining with the spaghetti and cauliflower.