Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, bursting with the bold and tangy flavors of Spain. This Spanish Spaghetti with Olives isn't just another pasta dish—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny Mediterranean coast. Whether you're a home cook looking to spice up your dinner routine or a food enthusiast craving authentic Spanish cuisine, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavor in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a 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, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the skillet with the garlic. Stir and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Add sliced black olives to the tomato sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm them through.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the tomato and olive sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with additional parsley if desired.
Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for an authentic Spanish touch—it makes a significant difference in the overall flavor.
- Don't overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned, which can make it bitter.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help create a smoother, more cohesive sauce if needed.
- Choose ripe, good-quality canned tomatoes for the best sauce consistency and flavor.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce.
- Fresh parsley is key—chop it just before adding to maintain its vibrant color and fresh taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its best texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
