Looking to spice up your pasta night? This Spicy Bucatini Amatriciana recipe will surely hit the spot! With a perfect balance of heat and flavor, it’s a must-try for all pasta lovers.
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz bucatini pasta
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 oz guanciale, diced
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Pecorino Romano cheese, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the guanciale and cook until crispy.
3. Add the red pepper flakes, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot with grated Pecorino Romano cheese on top.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 56g
– Protein: 14g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use pancetta instead of guanciale?**
– Yes, pancetta is a good substitute for guanciale in this recipe. It will still bring a delicious flavor to the dish.
2. **Can I use spaghetti instead of bucatini?**
– While bucatini is traditionally used in Amatriciana, spaghetti can be used as a substitute if you can’t find bucatini.
3. **Can I make this recipe vegetarian?**
– Yes, you can omit the guanciale and use mushrooms or eggplant as a vegetarian alternative for a similar texture.
4. **How can I make it less spicy?**
– You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to make the dish less spicy according to your preference.
5. **Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?**
– Yes, using fresh tomatoes can enhance the flavor, but canned tomatoes provide a convenient option and work well in this recipe.
6. **Can I add other vegetables to this dish?**
– Yes, adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can add more depth and nutrients to the dish.
7. **How long can I store leftovers?**
– Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
8. **Can I freeze this dish?**
– While pasta dishes can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
9. **What wine pairs well with Spicy Bucatini Amatriciana?**
– A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barbera complements the flavors of this dish beautifully.
10. **Can I add fresh basil or parsley for garnish?**
– Yes, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a pop of freshness and color to the dish before serving.
**Helpful tips:**
1. For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the spiciness.
2. Use high-quality Pecorino Romano cheese for a more authentic and flavorful taste.
3. Save some pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed before tossing the pasta.
4. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
5. Finish the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
7. Toast the red pepper flakes in the oil before adding other ingredients for a deeper flavor profile.
8. Cook the guanciale until crispy for a crunchy texture in the dish.
9. Opt for whole peeled tomatoes and crush them by hand for a chunkier sauce.
10. Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat to develop a richer flavor profile.
2. Saute the onion and garlic until fragrant before adding other ingredients for more depth.
3. Use a combination of black pepper and red pepper flakes for a well-rounded spice profile.
4. Balance the flavors with a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
5. Reserve some crispy guanciale to sprinkle on top of the finished dish for added texture.
6. Cook the pasta al dente to ensure the perfect texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
7. Experiment with different types of cheese like Parmesan or Grana Padano for a unique twist.
8. Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
9. Allow the pasta to sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving to absorb the flavors.
10. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal experience.
