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Fixing an over-salted spaghetti sauce can be done with a few simple techniques to balance the flavors. Here are some methods you can try:

  1. Dilution: One of the simplest ways to reduce the saltiness is to dilute the sauce. You can do this by adding more unsalted tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, or even some water or vegetable broth. Gradually add small amounts at a time, tasting as you go until the saltiness diminishes to your liking.

  2. Add Acid: The addition of acid can help counteract the saltiness in the sauce. Try adding a splash of red wine, white wine, or a squeeze of lemon or vinegar. The acidity will balance out the flavors and reduce the perception of salt.

  3. Balance with Sweetness: Adding a touch of sweetness can help mask the saltiness. You can use a small amount of sugar, honey, or even grated carrots to naturally sweeten the sauce. Again, add a little at a time, tasting as you go.

  4. Potato Method: Peel a raw potato and cut it into large chunks. Add the potato pieces to the sauce while it simmers. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. After cooking for a while, remove the potato chunks before serving.

  5. Cream or Dairy: Incorporating dairy can mellow out the saltiness. You can add a splash of cream, milk, or unsalted butter to the sauce, especially if it's a creamy tomato-based sauce.

  6. Additional Ingredients: Consider adding more of the other ingredients in the sauce to balance out the flavors. You can increase the amount of tomatoes, vegetables, herbs, or spices to distribute the saltiness more evenly.

  7. Starch Solution: Prepare some plain starch (e.g., cornstarch or flour) mixed with water to form a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. The starch can help absorb some of the salt.

  8. Add Potatoes or Pasta: If your spaghetti sauce is meant to be served with pasta, you can boil some unsalted pasta or potatoes separately. Drain them well, then mix them with the sauce. The pasta or potatoes will absorb some of the salt, helping to balance the flavor.

When using any of these methods, remember to make adjustments gradually and taste frequently to avoid overcompensating. The goal is to find a balance that suits your taste preferences.

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