Save It In the sun-drenched hills of Calabria, where the air is thick with the scent of Mediterranean herbs and spices, this fiery pasta dish was born. The Spicy Calabrian Chili Pasta embodies the bold, unapologetic flavors of Southern Italian cuisine. Each twirl of bucatini carries the perfect balance of heat from authentic Calabrian chilies, savory depth from melted anchovies, and brightness from fresh parsley and lemon zest. This dish tells the story of generations of Italian cooks who understood that sometimes, the most memorable meals come from the simplest ingredients treated with respect and a touch of culinary courage.
Save It Calabrian chili paste is the heart and soul of this recipe. Made from chilies grown in the toe of Italy's boot, these peppers offer a complex flavor profile that's fruity, smoky, and spicy without overwhelming the palate. When combined with garlic-infused olive oil and the umami richness of anchovies, they create a sauce that clings perfectly to the bucatini, making each bite a harmonious explosion of flavor. The final touch of fresh parsley and lemon zest brightens the dish, cutting through the richness with citrusy aromatics.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g bucatini
- Sauce: 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp Calabrian chili paste (or 2 tbsp finely chopped Calabrian chilies in oil)
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 6 anchovy fillets, drained and chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Finish: 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bucatini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and anchovies, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and anchovies have dissolved.
- Step 3
- Stir in Calabrian chili paste and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse the oil.
- Step 4
- Add the drained bucatini to the skillet, tossing to coat in the chili oil. If needed, add reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, until the sauce clings to the pasta.
- Step 5
- Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley and lemon zest.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately, topped with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The reserved pasta water is crucial to this recipe. This starchy liquid helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta, creating that silky texture that marks an authentic Italian pasta dish. Add it gradually while tossing the pasta to achieve the perfect consistency. Remember that bucatini is thicker than most pasta shapes, so it may need a minute or two longer to cook to al dente than you're used to with spaghetti.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the anchovies and add 1 tablespoon of capers for a similar briny flavor profile. If Calabrian chili paste is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of regular red pepper flakes, a touch of tomato paste, and a dash of red wine vinegar. For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed shrimp or calamari to the finished dish, or fold in some fresh cherry tomatoes with the parsley for added freshness and color.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this spicy pasta in warmed bowls to maintain its temperature. A sprinkle of high-quality Pecorino Romano adds a salty, savory finish that perfectly complements the heat of the chilies. For a complete meal, pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. As suggested in the recipe notes, this dish partners beautifully with a crisp white wine like Verdicchio or Pinot Grigio, whose acidity helps balance the richness and heat of the sauce.
Save It This Spicy Calabrian Chili Pasta represents the beautiful simplicity of Italian cooking - few ingredients, treated with care, coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you're cooking for a special date night or simply craving a bowl of comfort with a spicy kick, this recipe delivers authentic Southern Italian flavor in every strand of bucatini. The beauty lies in its adaptability - adjust the heat to your preference, swap in seasonal ingredients, or simply enjoy it in its pure, traditional form. Either way, a taste of Calabria is just 25 minutes away.
