Name: Master Spaghetti all'Assassina for Bold Flavor Lovers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (Helps to sauté the garlic for a fragrant base.); 2 cloves garlic, minced (Infuses the dish with a delightful aroma and flavor.); 3 cups tomato puree (The heart of this dish, providing a rich and savory taste.); 3 cups water (Balances the dish, creating the perfect sauce consistency.); 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances the flavors; adjust according to preference.); 1/4 cup olive oil (Adds a luscious texture and flavor to the spaghetti.); 2 teaspoons red chili flakes (Gives that famous kick and depth to the dish.); 6 ounces dry spaghetti (The star of the show, absorbing all those fabulous flavors.); salt to taste (A final touch to elevate your pasta perfectly.); 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (Brightens up the dish with a pop of freshness.)

There’s something utterly captivating about the way flavors intertwine in a hearty bowl of Spaghetti all’Assassina (Assassin’s Spaghetti). Picture this: you’re winding down after a busy day, and the comforting aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills your kitchen, instantly making you feel at home. As I experimented with this dish for the first time, I was surprised to discover how simple ingredients like tomato puree and a sprinkle of red chili flakes can transform into a tantalizing feast.

This pasta dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that keeps your taste buds dancing, combining the richness of tomatoes with the perfect kick of spice. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can craft a vibrant dish that brings the allure of Italian cuisine right into your own dining room. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply seeking to impress a loved one, Spaghetti all’Assassina is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into this delightful journey!

Why is Spaghetti all’Assassina a Must-Try?

Bold flavors await you in this tasty pasta dish!

Quick and easy: Prepping and cooking take just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and chili flakes creates a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering and watch your guests rave about it!
Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your palate—make it mild or turn up the heat as you like.
Comforting: Enjoy the warm, hearty experience of Italian home cooking from the comfort of your kitchen.

Get ready to impress with your cooking skills as you master this incredible dish!

Spaghetti all’Assassina Ingredients

• Dive into the deliciousness with these essential ingredients for Spaghetti all’Assassina!

For the Base

1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps to sauté the garlic for a fragrant base.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a delightful aroma and flavor.
3 cups tomato puree – The heart of this dish, providing a rich and savory taste.
3 cups water – Balances the dish, creating the perfect sauce consistency.
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste – Enhances the flavors; adjust according to preference.

For the Pasta

¼ cup olive oil – Adds a luscious texture and flavor to the spaghetti.
2 teaspoons red chili flakes, or to taste – Gives that famous kick and depth to the dish.
6 ounces dry spaghetti – The star of the show, absorbing all those fabulous flavors.
salt to taste – A final touch to elevate your pasta perfectly.

For the Garnish

1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley – Brightens up the dish with a pop of freshness.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Spaghetti all’Assassina that will tantalize your taste buds!

How to Make Spaghetti all’Assassina

Gather all ingredients.
Start by assembling everything you’ll need: olive oil, garlic, tomato puree, water, spices, and spaghetti. Having all your components ready makes cooking smoother!
Heat the oil.
Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sizzle until it turns golden and fragrant, roughly 1 minute. Stir in the tomato puree, water, and salt, and bring to a simmer on medium-high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and keep warm.
Prepare the skillet.
In a large non-stick skillet, pour in ¼ cup of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in the red chili flakes and let them sizzle for about 1 minute, releasing their spicy aroma.
Cook the spaghetti.
Add the raw spaghetti to the skillet, tossing until it’s well coated with the chili oil. This step gives your pasta a beautiful flavor!
Add tomato broth.
Pour in about 3 cups of your tomato broth from the pot. Using tongs, move the pasta around to evenly soak it. Cook while occasionally shifting the pasta from side to side, allowing it to absorb the broth until it is mostly evaporated and starts frying in the pan.
Brown the pasta.
With the tongs, turn the spaghetti over and arrange it evenly across the pan. Keep cooking until the pasta begins to brown and char lightly, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Repeat as needed.
Add about 2 more cups of the remaining tomato broth, repeating the cooking process until the spaghetti reaches your desired char and doneness. For a saucier dish, feel free to add more broth at the end.
Serve it up!
Serve your glorious Spaghetti all’Assassina with a drizzle of olive oil and additional chili flakes if you like more heat. Enjoy every bite!

Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Spaghetti all’Assassina are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the tomato broth (olive oil, garlic, tomato puree, water, and salt) up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can measure and mix the olive oil with red chili flakes and store it separately for easy use. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the tomato broth and follow the cooking steps to fry and char the spaghetti, ensuring the dish remains just as delicious! This way, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time.

Spaghetti all’Assassina Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish to suit your cravings!

Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a dish that everyone can enjoy.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to incorporate more nutrients and chunky texture. The sweetness of the vegetables melds beautifully with the spicy sauce.
Protein-Packed: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an added protein punch that turns your pasta into a hearty meal.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving for a rich and comforting variation. The creaminess balances the heat and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley for a fragrant twist that uplifts the dish’s aroma.
Spicy Kick: Increase the chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to satisfy those who crave extra heat. A little more spice brings an exciting punch to your bite!
Cheesy Delight: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese right before serving for a savory finish that melts beautifully over the pasta.

With these variations, each bite of Spaghetti all’Assassina can be a new adventure, delighting your taste buds in fresh and exciting ways!

What to Serve with Spaghetti all’Assassina?

Creating a memorable dining experience is all about forging delightful pairings that tantalize the senses and bring your meal to life.

Garlic Bread: A golden, crispy loaf, perfect for savoring every drop of sauce. The buttery garlic flavor complements the boldness of the spaghetti.
Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette cut through the richness of the pasta, balancing your plate beautifully. Add some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies caramelized to perfection enhance the meal with a medley of flavors. Their earthy richness adds depth, making every bite more satisfying.
Parmesan Cheese: Shaved or grated, this creamy cheese elevates the dish, adding both texture and a nutty flavor. Sprinkle it generously to deepen the flavor profile.
Chili Oil Drizzle: A simple yet effective way to amp up that spicy kick. Just a few drops over your plated spaghetti will invigorate the dish.
Italian Red Wine: A bold Chianti or Barbera pairs seamlessly with the flavors of the pasta, creating an indulgent experience. Let the wine’s complexity shine alongside your meal.
Tiramisu: Finish off the meal with this luscious dessert. The rich coffee and mascarpone layers provide a comforting end to your Italian feast, making every moment memorable.

Expert Tips for Spaghetti all’Assassina

Quality Ingredients: Use the best olive oil and ripe tomatoes you can find; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Watch the Heat: Cook the garlic until just golden to avoid bitterness; burnt garlic can ruin your dish.
Pasta Perfection: Stir the spaghetti occasionally and ensure it’s fully coated with broth for even cooking and absorption.
Savor the Char: Don’t rush the browning step; it’s the key to developing deep, rich flavors in your Spaghetti all’Assassina.
Customization: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to suit your heat preference, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy!

How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti all’Assassina

Room Temperature: Leftover Spaghetti all’Assassina can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated to ensure freshness.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and textures, making reheating a breeze!

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Spaghetti all’Assassina for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen spaghetti, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to bring back its moisture and flavor.

Spaghetti all’Assassina Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best tomatoes for my Spaghetti all’Assassina?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select ripe, vibrant tomatoes or high-quality canned tomato puree. Look for tomatoes that are bright red with no dark spots or blemishes. If using canned puree, opt for those without added sugars or preservatives for a fresher taste.

How should I store leftovers of Spaghetti all’Assassina?
You can keep leftover Spaghetti all’Assassina in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing, as this helps maintain texture and flavor during storage. Reheat gently on the stove to enjoy it again!

Can I freeze Spaghetti all’Assassina?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months—perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick meal. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat.

What should I do if my spaghetti turns mushy while cooking?
Very! A common issue is overcooking the pasta. Ensure you follow the cooking times and keep an eye on the spaghetti as it cooks. The key is to absorb the broth slowly, allowing the pasta to cook al dente (firm to the bite). If it starts to feel too soft, remove it from the heat immediately.

Is Spaghetti all’Assassina safe for kids or those with allergies?
Definitely! This dish is generally safe for kids, but do adjust the spice level by reducing the amount of red chili flakes for younger diners. For allergies, check that the ingredients used (like the olive oil and garlic) cater to specific needs, and consider gluten-free pasta options if necessary. Always take extra precaution when cooking for guests with known food allergies!