Spaghetti al Forno
Created by Susan Spungen

Spaghetti al Forno
Whole grain pasta adds a new level of health to a simple pasta dish.

Ingredients:
Makes 4 servings

Sauce:

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil , plus more for drizzling
  • 1 small onion , finely chopped
  • 2 carrots , peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery , finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper , to taste
Casserole:

  • 1/2 pound whole wheat spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 1 large pinch red pepper flakes
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons whole wheat breadcrumbs
To make sauce: In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables begin caramelizing, about 12 minutes. Turn heat to low; cook until very soft, 10–15 minutes. Raise heat to medium; add tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and partially cover. Cook 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 450°. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, subtracting several minutes off cooking time so it comes out very al dente.

Drain well; add to sauce. Add parsley and red pepper flakes; toss to combine. Transfer to a 2-quart baking dish. Spread level. Sprinkle with cheese and bread crumbs. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake until top is browning and sauce is bubbling, about 15 minutes. Serve immediately.