This recipe is one of those beautiful reminders that food can be simple and meaningful. That a quick dinner on a weeknight can turn into a moment of connection, a memory, or even a new family favorite — all because someone came home saying “Mamá, tienes que probar esto.”
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot, and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the anchovy fillets and use the back of a wooden spoon to mash them into the oil. Cook for about 2 minutes until they dissolve.
Stir in the 28 oz of tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes). Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes to bring all the flavors together. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce and toss well. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Serve hot, with plenty of grated Parmesan on top and a drizzle of extra olive oil if you like.
Notes
To store: Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the stovetop helps preserve the texture of the pasta.Freezing: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.