Black spaghetti or spaghetti with pepperoncino and seafood

Black Spaghetti with Seafood: A Marine Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a plate of spaghetti with seafood? This recipe, full of flavors and colors, will transport you straight to the Mediterranean shores, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. The black spaghetti, with its vibrant color from squid ink, offers not only a spectacular appearance but also a unique texture, perfect for holding a rich and aromatic sauce.

The history of spaghetti with seafood is captivating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of maritime regions. Seafood has always been an essential source of protein and nutrients, and the combination with pasta quickly became a favorite among food lovers worldwide. This recipe celebrates simplicity and fresh ingredients, with an unmistakable flavor.

Ingredients:
- 300 g black spaghetti (or spaghetti with peperoncino)
- 600 g seafood (squid, octopus, shrimp, mussels, surimi)
- 350 g cherry tomatoes or peeled and sliced regular tomatoes
- 2 garlic cloves (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (for a hint of spiciness)
- 300 ml dry white wine (about 1 glass)
- 1 bunch of chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 100-200 g black olives, sliced (to taste)
- Salt and white pepper, to taste

Practical tips:
1. Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality fresh seafood to achieve excellent flavor and texture. If fresh seafood is not available, frozen ones are a good alternative, but ensure you thaw them properly before use.
2. Treat your taste buds: The addition of dry white wine to the sauce will help balance the flavors and give the dish a special taste. Don't hesitate to choose a wine you enjoy, whether white or rosé, as a chilled glass will work wonders alongside your spaghetti.
3. A touch of spiciness: If you like spicy food, add more chili powder or even some chili flakes to the sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Preparation:
1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt, then cook the black spaghetti according to the package instructions. Ensure the pasta is al dente, as it will be cooked further in the sauce.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic or, if using garlic powder, add it directly. Sauté for 1 minute, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

3. Add the seafood to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until opaque. They will release water, which will help form the sauce.

4. Add the glass of white wine and let it simmer, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. This step is essential, as the wine will add depth to the flavor.

5. Once the wine has evaporated, add the sliced tomatoes and olives. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the sauce thickens slightly.

6. When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet, carefully tossing to coat it evenly with the delicious sauce. Add the chopped parsley and season with salt and white pepper to taste.

7. Serve immediately, with a glass of chilled white or rosé wine on the side. A garnish of fresh parsley on top will add a splash of color and freshness to the dish.

Possible variations:
- Experiment with different types of pasta: You can replace black spaghetti with whole grain pasta or other shapes like tagliatelle or linguine.
- Add vegetables: You can include vegetables like zucchini or fresh spinach, which pair perfectly with the seafood sauce.
- Change the seafood: Depending on the season, you can use mussels or fresh fish, such as salmon.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, frozen seafood is an excellent alternative. Make sure to thaw it beforehand and dry it well to avoid excess water in the sauce.

2. How can I make the spaghetti less spicy?
If you're not a fan of spicy dishes, you can omit the chili powder or use a smaller amount. The taste will still be savory.

3. What wine pairs best with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will perfectly complement the flavors of the seafood. If you prefer rosé, choose a fresh one with fruity notes.

Nutritional benefits:
This seafood spaghetti recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Seafood is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, while tomatoes provide a significant amount of antioxidants. Additionally, olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats.

Calories:
A serving of seafood spaghetti (about 1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and seafood used.

Buon appetito! This black spaghetti with seafood recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Don’t forget to share this delicacy with loved ones and enjoy every bite!