Scarpetta Spaghetti Recipe: Easy Authentic Italian Dish

Scarpetta spaghetti is the ultimate Italian comfort food, designed for those who love to savor every last bit of sauce on their plate. The word “scarpetta” means “little shoe” in Italian, referring to the delightful practice of using a piece of bread to mop up the delicious sauce left behind after the pasta is gone.

This recipe celebrates simplicity and freshness, focusing on high-quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil. It’s an ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends and family.

What makes scarpetta spaghetti truly special is its unpretentious nature—it’s not about complex techniques, but about letting the flavors shine and encouraging you to enjoy the act of eating. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through creating a vibrant and satisfying plate of pasta that’s bursting with authentic Italian flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This scarpetta spaghetti recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s perfect for anyone craving a dish that’s both comforting and fresh.

Using just a handful of ingredients, you create a sauce that’s rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.

The beauty of this dish is in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. The technique of “scarpetta” transforms eating into a fun, interactive experience, encouraging you to savor every bite.

In addition, this recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and wines, making it an all-around crowd-pleaser. You’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for serving
• Crusty Italian bread, for scarpetta

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. Make the sauce base: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook gently until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
3. Add the tomatoes: Add the chopped ripe tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a fresh sauce.
4. Season the sauce: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the torn basil leaves, reserving a few for garnish. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 2 minutes.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Plate and serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls. Top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and fresh basil leaves.
7. Enjoy with scarpetta: Serve immediately with warm, crusty Italian bread for “scarpetta” — the perfect way to mop up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Tips & Variations

“The key to an amazing scarpetta spaghetti is using the freshest ingredients you can find, especially ripe tomatoes and quality olive oil.”

• Use San Marzano tomatoes: For a sweeter, more authentic sauce, try San Marzano canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t in season.
• Garlic infusion: If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two, or infuse the olive oil with garlic overnight for an extra punch of flavor.
• Add chili flakes: For a subtle heat, sprinkle red chili flakes into the sauce during cooking.
• Make it vegan: Skip the Parmigiano cheese or substitute with a vegan-friendly cheese alternative.
• Herb variations: Experiment with fresh oregano or thyme along with basil for a different herbal note.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This scarpetta spaghetti pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a dry Italian Vermentino. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon is refreshing and complements the dish nicely.

For sides, consider a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or a plate of grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. A charcuterie board with olives, prosciutto, and cheeses also complements the meal well, especially if you are serving this for guests.

Don’t forget the crusty bread! This is essential for the true scarpetta experience—dipping and savoring every last drop of that flavorful sauce.

Conclusion

Scarpetta spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and good company. This recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking—fresh, flavorful, and unpretentious.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both sophisticated and comforting.

Whether you serve it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, scarpetta spaghetti is sure to impress. Its fresh tomato sauce, fragrant garlic, and aromatic basil come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.

So, grab your bread, dig in, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!

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