Black Spaghetti Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Looking to impress your family or friends with a visually stunning and delicious vegetarian pasta dish? This black spaghetti recipe is exactly what you need!

The striking dark color of the pasta comes from squid ink, but don’t worry — this vegetarian version uses black garlic and other rich, flavorful ingredients to mimic that deep, umami taste without any seafood.

It’s a perfect dinner option for vegetarians who want to explore bold tastes and unique presentations in their meals.

This recipe combines al dente black spaghetti with a savory sauce made from black garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs for a mouthwatering experience. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this black spaghetti will become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant and unique: The deep black color of the spaghetti gives your plate a dramatic, restaurant-worthy look without any complicated techniques.

Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe skips seafood and meat but keeps all the umami flavor with black garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add vegan cheese for an extra creamy touch.

Ingredients

• 8 oz black spaghetti (you can find black wheat pasta or regular spaghetti if unavailable)
• 4 cloves black garlic, finely minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese, for serving (optional)

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the black spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced black garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as black garlic is delicate.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and capers to the skillet. Stir for 3-4 minutes to combine and gently warm the ingredients.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce reduce slightly for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add red chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
7. Stir in fresh chopped basil and squeeze the lemon juice over the pasta. Give everything a good toss to distribute flavors.
8. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese if desired. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful black spaghetti!

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of umami, try adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari to the sauce.

You can substitute black spaghetti with squid ink pasta if you are not strictly vegetarian and want the authentic taste and color.

Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed asparagus for more texture and nutrients.

For a creamy twist, stir in a few tablespoons of vegan cream cheese or coconut cream right before serving.

If you enjoy spice, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This black spaghetti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

For a light appetizer, try Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe on crostini — the sun-dried tomato flavors will complement your pasta perfectly.

To finish your meal on a sweet note, serve with the rich and creamy Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe, a delicious contrast to the savory pasta.

Looking for another hearty vegetarian dish? Check out our Cheese Penny Recipe for a comforting cheese and herb pasta delight.

Conclusion

This black spaghetti recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your vegetarian dinner repertoire. It’s visually stunning, delightfully flavorful, and easy enough to prepare even on a busy night.

The combination of black garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives creates a rich umami flavor that satisfies without any meat or seafood. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your pantry and taste preferences.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it alongside fresh salads or roasted veggies for a balanced meal, and don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.

Happy cooking!

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