Spaghetti all’Assassina Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti all’Assassina is a deliciously fiery Italian pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of spicy tomato sauce with crispy charred spaghetti. This dish comes from Bari, in the south of Italy, and is a one-pan wonder that you can whip up in just about 20 minutes. The secret to its irresistible taste is the slightly charred texture of the pasta, which adds a smoky bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the rich and spicy sauce. It’s a perfect option if you love fiery food, and topping it with creamy burrata takes this dish to another level.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 10 ounces spaghetti

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and halved

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• ¾ cup tomato paste (thick paste, from a tube or small can)

• 2 cups tomato puree or passata

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• 3 small burrata (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat.

2. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing gently for about a minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing it to darken slightly.

4. Add the tomato puree, 2 cups of vegetable broth, and salt, stirring well.

5. Add the spaghetti, ensuring it’s well-covered with the sauce. Let it simmer for 8 to 12 minutes, adding more broth if necessary.

6. Allow the spaghetti to slightly stick to the pan and char, turning it only once or twice during cooking for the crispy texture.

7. Once the pasta is cooked, serve it directly from the skillet or transfer to a plate.

8. Top with burrata, or an alternative soft cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 people

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheese options: While burrata is the traditional choice, feel free to use mozzarella, ricotta, or stracciatella cheese.

• Spice level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. You can also add fresh chili for an extra kick.

• Vegan option: Skip the burrata or use a vegan cheese substitute to make this recipe completely plant-based.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 36 hours.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil for the best texture or in the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

How can I make spaghetti all’Assassina less spicy?

You can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder version.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store the leftovers for up to 36 hours in the fridge and reheat them.

What if I don’t have burrata cheese?

You can substitute burrata with mozzarella, ricotta, or stracciatella for a creamy topping.

Is it necessary to char the pasta?

No, but charring the pasta adds a unique smoky flavor and crispy texture that enhances the dish.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, though spaghetti is traditional, you can use other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

What’s the best way to serve spaghetti all’Assassina?

You can serve it directly in the pan for a rustic, cozy feel, or plate it for a more formal presentation.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chili to the sauce to boost the heat.

Can I make this recipe with fresh tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll need to cook them down into a puree before using them in the sauce.

Can I use a non-stick pan?

Yes, a non-stick skillet will work fine for this recipe, but a cast iron skillet will give you a better crispy texture.

Conclusion

Spaghetti all’Assassina is a bold and flavorful pasta dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With its spicy sauce, slightly charred spaghetti, and creamy cheese topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a fiery meal to enjoy with friends or a comforting solo dinner, this dish will deliver on all fronts. Give it a try, and don’t forget to adjust the spice level to your taste!

Spaghetti all’Assassina Recipe

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Spaghetti all’Assassina is a fiery, bold Italian pasta dish with crispy, charred spaghetti and a spicy tomato sauce. Originating from Bari, in southern Italy, this one-pan wonder combines the smoky bitterness of slightly charred pasta with a rich, spicy tomato sauce. Topped with creamy burrata, it’s a delicious, quick, and flavorful meal you can prepare in just about 20 minutes. Perfect for spice lovers!

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Pasta, Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian, Southern Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

10 ounces spaghetti

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, peeled and halved

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

¾ cup tomato paste (thick paste, from a tube or small can)

2 cups tomato puree or passata

4 cups vegetable broth

¾ teaspoon salt

3 small burrata (optional, for topping)

Instructions

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat.

• Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing gently for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing it to darken slightly.

• Add the tomato puree, 2 cups of vegetable broth, and salt, stirring well.

• Add the spaghetti, ensuring it’s well-covered with the sauce. Let it simmer for 8 to 12 minutes, adding more broth if necessary.

• Allow the spaghetti to slightly stick to the pan and char. Turn the pasta once or twice for a crispy texture.

• Once the pasta is cooked, serve it directly from the skillet or transfer to a plate.

• Top with burrata (or alternative cheese, if desired).

Notes

• Cheese Options: Burrata is traditional, but mozzarella, ricotta, or stracciatella work well too.

• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. Add fresh chili for extra spice.

• Vegan Option: Skip the burrata or use vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 36 hours.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with olive oil for a crispy texture, or use the microwave for convenience.