Imagine a pasta dish so simple yet so incredibly delicious that it transports you straight to the sun-drenched streets of Sicily with just one bite. Pasta ca Muddica, or Pasta with Breadcrumbs, is not just a recipe—it's a testament to the ingenious Sicilian tradition of turning humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This peasant-style dish proves that you don't need expensive ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing carefully to prevent burning, about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add breadcrumbs to the skillet and toast them, stirring constantly, until they become golden brown and crispy. This should take approximately 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Drain the pasta and transfer it directly to the skillet with the toasted breadcrumbs. Toss the pasta thoroughly to coat every strand, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Remove from heat and plate the pasta. Sprinkle additional toasted breadcrumbs on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the rustic Sicilian flavors of this traditional dish.
Tips
- Use high-quality breadcrumbs for the best flavor—preferably homemade or artisanal breadcrumbs.
- Toast the breadcrumbs slowly and carefully to prevent burning, which can make them bitter.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining—it's liquid gold for helping breadcrumbs stick to the pasta.
- Use extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Sicilian flavor profile.
- Fresh parsley is key for adding a bright, fresh note to this rustic dish.
- Serve immediately while the breadcrumbs are still crispy for the best texture experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
