Grilled Spaghetti Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces thick dry spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 rounded tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 3/4 cups chicken broth, plus more as needed
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste, depending on the salt level of the broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup basil leaves, torn into small pieces
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano, or to taste
• 1 pinch red chili flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare an outdoor charcoal grill for medium-high heat.
2. Place dry spaghetti on the hot charcoal grill and cook, tossing often with tongs until the pasta is toasted to a light brown, about 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and saut until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Add tomato paste to the pan and saut for an additional 1 minute, then pour in the chicken broth.
5. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the broth to a simmer.
6. Add salt and the grilled spaghetti. Use tongs to toss the pasta in the broth, moving it back and forth until it softens enough to be covered by the broth. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti reaches your desired level of tenderness. This will take a few minutes longer than the package directions indicate. If the pan becomes too dry, add a splash more of broth.
7. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the butter and torn basil leaves until the butter melts.
8. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. If desired, add a pinch of red chili flakes for some extra heat.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount
Calories	277
Total Fat	19g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	25mg
Sodium	1569mg
Total Carbohydrate	22g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	7g
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	81mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	207mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Grilled Spaghetti, as the name suggests, combines the timeless Italian pasta tradition with a unique twist of grilling. This dish involves toasting dry spaghetti on a charcoal grill, infusing it with a smoky flavor before cooking it in a savory broth with garlic, basil, and tomato paste. It is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a popular option for those who appreciate classic pasta dishes with a bold, smoky flavor.

History of Grilled Spaghetti

The origins of Grilled Spaghetti are relatively modern, emerging from creative cooks looking to expand the versatility of traditional pasta dishes. While pasta itself has been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries, the idea of grilling dry pasta is a relatively new innovation. This concept likely draws inspiration from other grilled pasta dishes, such as Spaghetti all'Assassina, which is an Apulian specialty where pasta is fried in a pan until crispy. Grilling spaghetti, however, adds an extra layer of smoky richness that cannot be replicated by any other method, offering a fresh take on an age-old comfort food.

Regional Variations and Influences

Although Grilled Spaghetti is not tied to a specific region in Italy, its preparation reflects the Italian love for combining simple, quality ingredients with bold cooking techniques. The concept of grilling pasta is reminiscent of southern Italian cooking, where grilling vegetables, meats, and even pasta is common. The use of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmigiano Reggiano gives it a distinctly Italian flavor profile, while the grilling process introduces flavors more commonly associated with barbecue-style cooking. It's a wonderful fusion of northern and southern Italian influences, where traditional ingredients meet innovative methods.

What Sets Grilled Spaghetti Apart?

Grilled Spaghetti stands out from other pasta dishes because of its unique cooking technique. Traditional pasta is boiled, but in this recipe, the spaghetti is grilled first. This toasting process adds a depth of flavor and a crispy texture that enhances the final dish. Additionally, unlike other pasta dishes, the grilled spaghetti absorbs the smoky essence from the grill, making it a one-of-a-kind pasta experience. The grilling also changes the way the spaghetti interacts with the sauce, resulting in a distinct balance of crispy edges and tender pasta within. Grilled Spaghetti is not just a different way to cook pastait's a completely new experience for the palate.

Where Is Grilled Spaghetti Typically Served?

Grilled Spaghetti is often served as a side dish, but it can also make a satisfying main course, especially when paired with grilled vegetables or meats like eggplant, chicken, or seafood. Its a great dish for summer barbecues or outdoor gatherings, as the grilling adds a unique flavor that complements the smoky ambiance of an outdoor cookout. In Italy, this dish would be a delightful surprise at family meals or informal gatherings, as it brings a modern touch to traditional Italian comfort food. Its versatility allows it to pair with a variety of wines, from crisp whites to medium-bodied reds, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties.

Interesting Facts About Grilled Spaghetti

• Grilled Spaghetti is not traditionally found on restaurant menus in Italy, but it has gained popularity among experimental home cooks and chefs looking for unique ways to prepare pasta.
• The smoky flavor imparted by grilling the spaghetti is a game-changer, offering a twist that regular pasta simply cannot achieve.
• The dish can be customized with a variety of additional ingredients such as red chili flakes, fresh herbs, or even a touch of lemon zest to enhance its flavor profile.
• While the grilling process may seem unusual, it's actually a creative solution to making pasta more exciting and incorporating the smoky flavor profile of a barbecue without sacrificing the authenticity of Italian ingredients.

Whether you're a seasoned pasta lover or just looking to try something new, Grilled Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful dish that brings something fresh to your table. Its rich, smoky taste and simple ingredients make it a delightful addition to any meal.

FAQ about Grilled Spaghetti Recipe

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