Black spaghetti

Squid Ink Spaghetti – a quick and tasty recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, drizzled with olive oil and grated parmesan? This squid ink spaghetti is an excellent choice, bringing a splash of creativity to your table without being complicated. The unmistakable flavor of squid ink gives the pasta a unique hue, turning it into a culinary delight.

The history of this spaghetti is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Simple white pasta, which has become a staple ingredient in many cultures, is enriched with squid ink to bring a taste of the sea to every bite. This simple yet sophisticated recipe is perfect for special occasions or for a quick dinner during the week.

Ingredients:
- 500 g black spaghetti (or regular spaghetti, if you prefer)
- 2 g iodized salt (about a teaspoon)
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 100 g grated parmesan (or more, to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the boiling water
Start by filling a large pot with about 3 liters of cold water. Make sure to use a stainless steel pot with a triple bottom to distribute the heat evenly. This type of pot will help prevent the pasta from sticking and will avoid corrosion if you add salt to boiling water.

Step 2: Boiling the pasta
Place the pot on high heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Once the water is boiling, add the salt. It is essential to add the salt only when the water is hot; otherwise, it will settle at the bottom of the pot. Now, add the whole spaghetti without breaking it. Let it boil for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Draining and cooling the pasta
When the spaghetti is al dente, remove it from the heat and drain it using a colander. Then, quickly run it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This simple trick will help maintain the perfect texture of the pasta.

Step 4: Seasoning the pasta
After draining the spaghetti, add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Mix well so that each strand of spaghetti is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serving
To serve, place the spaghetti on plates and generously sprinkle grated parmesan on top. If desired, you can add an extra drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of mushrooms or seafood, you can sauté them in olive oil before adding the pasta.
- Make sure the parmesan is of good quality, preferably freshly grated, to maximize flavor.
- You can experiment with herbs like oregano or parsley to diversify the taste.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a bottle of white wine for an elegant dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use regular spaghetti instead of black spaghetti?
Yes, you can substitute black spaghetti with any type of pasta you prefer. The taste will be different, but just as delicious.

- What other ingredients can I add to enhance the recipe?
You can add sautéed garlic, cherry tomatoes, or olives to intensify the flavor.

- What are the nutritional benefits of this recipe?
Spaghetti is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy, while extra virgin olive oil is rich in healthy fats that contribute to heart health.

Estimated calories per serving: 350-400 kcal (depending on the amount of parmesan used)

This simple squid ink spaghetti recipe is not just a delicious way to add a splash of variety to your meals, but also an opportunity to explore combinations and variations. Whether you prepare it for a romantic evening or for a quick family dinner, this pasta will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Happy cooking!