Authentic Italian Tagliatelle with Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients for 4 Servings

• 320g fresh egg pasta Tagliatelle
• 200g minced meat (beef or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 onion
• 1 carrot
• 1 stalk of celery
• 200g peeled tomatoes
• 30g extra virgin olive oil
• 30g Grana Padano cheese

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery. In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over low heat and sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant.
2. Cook the Meat: Add the minced meat to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
3. Add Tomatoes: Chop the peeled tomatoes and add them to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer: Cover the pan and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook the Pasta: Boil the Tagliatelle in salted water until al dente. Drain well.
6. Combine and Serve: Mix the Tagliatelle with the Bolognese sauce, sprinkle with Grana Padano cheese, and serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Breakdown

A serving of Tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce contains approximately 500 calories. Here's the detailed breakdown:

Nutritional Benefits

Tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce is rich in essential nutrients:

• Iron and Magnesium: Vital for muscle function and energy production.
• Vitamin B12: Crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function.

Tips for a Balanced Diet

While Tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce is a complete meal, it's important to balance it with lighter side dishes to avoid excessive calorie intake. Pairing it with baked vegetables or a fresh salad can make for a well-rounded meal.

Lighter Version

For a lighter version of this dish, consider using lean beef instead of a mix of beef and pork. Lean beef provides about 220 calories per 200g, which is 100 calories less than the traditional mix.

Interesting Facts

• Historical Origin: The Bolognese sauce, or "Ragù alla Bolognese," originated in Bologna, Italy, and was first documented in the 18th century.
• Pasta Consumption: Italians consume an average of 23.5 kg of pasta per person annually, making them the largest pasta consumers in the world (source).
• Nutritional Insight: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that pasta consumption is associated with a lower body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (source).

Conclusion

Tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce is not just a culinary delight but also a nutritious meal that can fit into a balanced diet. By making small adjustments, such as using lean meat, you can enjoy this classic dish without compromising on health. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

For more authentic Italian recipes, visit Eataly.