Spaghetti alla Carrettiera Recipe

Spaghetti alla Carrettiera is a traditional Italian pasta dish known for its simple yet bold flavors. Originating from the rural regions of Italy, this recipe brings together the earthy taste of garlic, the umami richness of anchovies, and the vibrant kick of chili flakes, all beautifully balanced by sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley.

The use of fresh breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a textural delight.

This dish exemplifies the Italian philosophy of using high-quality, uncomplicated ingredients to create a meal that is both comforting and satisfying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Simple and Authentic Flavors: This dish highlights the beauty of Italian cooking by using a few high-quality ingredients to create a meal that is both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of garlic, anchovies, and chili flakes offers a delightful depth of flavor that is enhanced by the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the freshness of parsley.

Quick and Easy Preparation: With a straightforward cooking process, Spaghetti alla Carrettiera is perfect for those looking for a delicious meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have much time to spare.

Healthy and Wholesome Ingredients: This recipe uses wholesome ingredients like fresh tomatoes, garlic, and parsley, making it a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The anchovies add a boost of protein and healthy fats, while the olive oil provides heart-healthy benefits.

Textural Delight: The addition of toasted breadcrumbs provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender spaghetti, creating a pleasing textural experience that keeps each bite interesting and enjoyable.

Versatile and Customizable: While delicious as it is, this dish can easily be customized to suit individual preferences. You can adjust the level of spiciness, add vegetables, or even incorporate different herbs to tailor the recipe to your liking.

Key Ingredients:

Spaghetti: Serves as the foundation of the dish, offering a classic pasta texture that absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Al dente spaghetti provides the perfect balance of firmness and tenderness.

Fresh Breadcrumbs: Add a delightful crunch and texture contrast to the dish. They are toasted to a golden brown, enhancing their flavor and providing a rustic touch.

Olive Oil: Acts as a flavorful base for sautéing the garlic and other ingredients, infusing the dish with a rich, fruity aroma that is characteristic of Italian cooking.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic foundation that enhances the depth of flavor in the dish. When gently fried, it releases a sweet, mellow taste that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Anchovy Fillets: Bring a savory, umami-rich depth to the dish. When melted into the oil, they dissolve into the sauce, adding complexity and a subtle brininess that complements the other flavors.

Cherry Tomatoes: Contribute sweetness and acidity, balancing the robust flavors of the garlic and anchovies. They add a fresh, juicy element that enhances the overall taste profile.

Parsley: Offers a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish and complements the rich flavors. It is used both in cooking and as a garnish, adding color and flavor.

Dried Chili Flakes: Introduce a gentle heat that adds excitement to each bite, balancing the richness of the anchovies and the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Spaghetti alla Carrettiera Recipe

Ingredients:

360g (13 oz) spaghetti

125ml (½ cup) fresh breadcrumbs

3-5 tbsp olive oil

4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

6 anchovy fillets, in oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes

60ml (4 tbsp) parsley, washed and finely chopped

15ml (1 tbsp) dried chili flakes

Instructions to Prepare Pasta alla Carrettiera:

Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.

Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the fresh breadcrumbs. Toast them until they achieve a golden color, then remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic and Oil: In a large frying pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic cloves and gently fry them.

Combine the Main Ingredients: After about two minutes, incorporate the anchovy fillets, dried chili flakes, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley into the pan.

Mash and Cook: Use a fork to mash the anchovies into small pieces. Continue to gently fry the mixture for approximately 5 minutes, or until the garlic is fully cooked and the tomatoes have softened.

Mix with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, stirring it into the sauce so that the pasta is well-coated. Allow the spaghetti to heat through.

Finish with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the pasta, giving it one last stir. Divide the spaghetti evenly among four plates.

Serve and Garnish: Garnish each serving with additional parsley and breadcrumbs, then serve the dish immediately.

Notes:

Spaghetti Cooking Tips: Cook the spaghetti until al dente, as this texture allows the pasta to hold up well when mixed with the sauce. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

Breadcrumb Preparation: Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture and flavor. Toast them until golden brown for optimal crunch, and keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Anchovy Usage: If you’re hesitant about using anchovies, know that they dissolve into the oil and provide a subtle umami flavor rather than a strong fishy taste. They are key to the depth of flavor in the dish.

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Spice Level Adjustment: The amount of chili flakes can be adjusted according to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount, or increase it for a spicier kick.

Freshness of Ingredients: Use fresh garlic, ripe cherry tomatoes, and freshly chopped parsley to achieve the most vibrant flavors. These fresh elements add brightness and balance to the dish.

Customization Options: Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, for additional flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. Pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the anchovy fillets.

To maintain the umami flavor that anchovies provide, consider adding a tablespoon of capers or using a dash of soy sauce or miso paste as a substitute.

These alternatives will keep the dish flavorful without the use of fish.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

While spaghetti is traditional for Spaghetti alla Carrettiera, you can use other long pasta types like linguine or fettuccine if you prefer.

The key is to use pasta that can hold the sauce well, ensuring each strand is coated with the flavorful ingredients.

How can I ensure the breadcrumbs stay crunchy?

To keep the breadcrumbs crunchy, toast them until they are golden brown before adding them to the dish.

It’s best to sprinkle them on top just before serving to maintain their texture.

If added too early, they may absorb moisture from the pasta and lose their crunch.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While you can prepare some components in advance, such as toasting the breadcrumbs and chopping the ingredients, it’s best to cook the pasta and assemble the dish just before serving.

This ensures the pasta remains al dente and the flavors are fresh and vibrant.

How can I adjust the spice level?

The spice level in this dish is primarily determined by the amount of dried chili flakes used.

To make the dish milder, reduce the quantity of chili flakes.

Conversely, if you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together after cooking?

To prevent spaghetti from sticking together, ensure you cook it in a large pot with plenty of salted boiling water.

Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking.

Once cooked and drained, you can toss it with a small amount of olive oil to keep the strands separate until you’re ready to combine it with the sauce.

What is the best way to crush and cook the garlic for this dish?

For the best flavor, use fresh garlic cloves that are peeled and crushed just before cooking.

Cook them gently in olive oil over medium heat until they are fragrant and slightly golden.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it taste bitter.

How can I keep the anchovies from overpowering the dish?

Anchovies are meant to dissolve into the sauce, adding a subtle umami depth rather than a strong fishy taste.

To prevent them from overpowering the dish, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go.

You can always add more if you desire a stronger flavor.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs if fresh ones are not available.

However, fresh breadcrumbs tend to have a better texture and flavor.

If using store-bought, consider toasting them in a pan with a little olive oil to enhance their flavor and achieve a golden color.

How should I adjust the seasoning in this dish?

The anchovies and breadcrumbs contribute saltiness, so taste the dish before adding any additional salt.

If needed, season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste just before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.