Assassin Spaghetti

Hey there, pasta lovers! I’m here to share my take on a recipe that’s taken the internet by storm: Spaghetti all’Assassina, also known as Assassin’s Spaghetti37. This dish is all about bold flavors, a bit of spice, and a unique cooking method that results in perfectly charred, chewy pasta3. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked6.

Quick Facts

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Serving size: 2-3 people

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unusual method Instead of simply boiling pasta, you cook it directly in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all the flavors and develop a delightful char3.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it easy to whip up any night of the week8.
• Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your taste, from a mild tingle to a fiery kick3.

Ingredients

• 8 oz Spaghetti, uncooked1
• 2-3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil1
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced1
• 1 Tsp Red Chili Flakes (or more, to taste)1
• ½ Tsp Salt, or to taste1

For the Sauce:

• 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes1
• 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil1
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced1
• 1 Tsp Red Chili Flakes1
• 2-3 Tbsp Fresh Basil, Chiffonade1
• ½ Tsp Salt1
• 1 Tsp Black Pepper1
• ½ Tbsp Sugar (optional, if needed)1

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, and red chili flakes1. Let the oil heat up and infuse with the flavors. Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using)1. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes1.
2. Infuse the Oil: In a large pan (12″ or larger) over medium-low heat, add 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, along with minced garlic and red chili flakes1.
3. Toast the Spaghetti: Once the oil is hot and infused, add the uncooked spaghetti to the pan1. Gently stir until the spaghetti changes color1.
4. Start Cooking: Add a cup of hot water and a cup of the prepared pasta sauce to the pan1. Gently stir to coat the spaghetti, being careful not to break it1.
5. Cook and Char: Allow the water and sauce to reduce, then add more water and sauce as needed until the spaghetti is al dente1.
6. The Char is Key: Once the spaghetti is cooked, slightly increase the heat to evaporate any remaining water and prevent overcooking1. Spread the pasta evenly in the pan and let it sit for about 20 seconds, allowing the sauce and some of the spaghetti to stick to the pan1.
7. Flip and Repeat: Use a spatula to get under the spaghetti and flip it over to char the other side1. Keep doing this until as much of the spaghetti as possible is nicely charred1.
8. Serve: Turn off the heat, garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese (if desired), and serve immediately1.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Garnish: Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese are always a win13.
• Creamy Contrast: A dollop of creamy burrata can help cool down the spice and adds a luxurious touch23.
• Simple Side: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Tips for Customization

• Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or use fresh, thinly sliced chili peppers for extra heat23.
• Add Some Meat: For a richer flavor, add guanciale or finely chopped bacon to the pan before the garlic and pepper flakes3.
• Vegan Delight: This recipe is naturally vegan, but feel free to add your favorite plant-based cheese or protein3.

FAQs

Why is it called “Assassin’s Spaghetti?”

• The name “Spaghetti all’Assassina” translates to “Assassin’s Spaghetti”2. Some say it’s because the pasta is “killed” or overcooked in the pan, while others suggest the spice level is the killer7.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

• While spaghetti is traditional, you can experiment with other long pasta shapes like linguine or bucatini.

What if I don’t have San Marzano tomatoes?

• You can substitute with any good quality crushed tomatoes or tomato puree4.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

• Calories: 400-500
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 15g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.