Spaghetti Aglio E Olio E Pangrattato
If you're a fan of Italian food, you're probably familiar with spaghetti aglio e olio, a simple but delicious pasta dish that's easy to make and bursting with flavor. However, have you ever tried adding pangrattato to it? If you haven't, you're missing out on an extra layer of texture and taste that takes this classic dish to the next level. In this article, we'll take a closer look at spaghetti aglio e olio e pangrattato, its history, ingredients, and how to make it at home.
What is Spaghetti Aglio E Olio E Pangrattato?
Spaghetti aglio e olio is a traditional Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. The name literally translates to "spaghetti with garlic and oil" in English. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that's popular all over Italy and beyond. However, adding pangrattato to it takes it to another level.
Pangrattato, also known as "poor man's Parmesan," is a mixture of breadcrumbs, olive oil, and garlic that's toasted until crispy and golden brown. It's a great way to add texture and flavor to pasta dishes, soups, and salads. When added to spaghetti aglio e olio, pangrattato creates a contrast of textures that's both crunchy and soft, and a flavor that's nutty and savory. It's a match made in heaven.
The History of Spaghetti Aglio E Olio E Pangrattato
The origins of spaghetti aglio e olio are unclear, but it's believed to have originated in the south of Italy, where simple pasta dishes are a staple. The dish became popular in the United States in the 1990s, thanks in part to the movie "Big Night," in which it's featured as one of the main courses. However, adding pangrattato to it is a recent twist that has become increasingly popular in Italy and beyond.
The Ingredients for Spaghetti Aglio E Olio E Pangrattato
To make spaghetti aglio e olio e pangrattato, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Spaghetti Aglio E Olio E Pangrattato
1. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Return the skillet to medium heat and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss to coat the pasta with the garlic and oil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a little pasta water to loosen it up. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the pasta among four plates and sprinkle with the pangrattato. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Conclusion
Spaghetti aglio e olio e pangrattato is a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to serve to guests, this classic Italian recipe won't disappoint. So, give it a try and let us know what you think!