Spaghetti Alla Chittara Recipe

Spaghetti alla Chittara is a classic Italian dish, simple yet rich in flavors. It's named after the tool used to cut the pasta - a chittara, meaning 'guitar' in Italian. This recipe provides an authentic experience of Italian homemade pasta, with an aromatic mix of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and fragrant garlic infused in olive oil.

Photos of Spaghetti Alla Chittara Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in homes, you might need to look for 'chittara', a traditional Italian pasta cutter, if you are keen on making the spaghetti from scratch. However, buying pre-made spaghetti is a perfectly good alternative. Roma tomatoes are also key to this recipe. They are meatier than regular tomatoes and have fewer seeds, making them perfect for sauces.

Key Ingredients for Spaghetti alla Chittara

Spaghetti: An essential base of the dish. It's thick and robust shape holds up well with the hearty sauce.

Roma tomatoes: Chosen for their rich flavor and low moisture content, they form the backbone of the sauce.

Olive oil: This acts as a cooking medium and adds a distinct, rich flavor to the dish.

Basil: Adds a fragrant, peppery flavor to the sauce. It's always best used fresh.

Garlic: Provides a punchy, aromatic undertone to the dish.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

One reader, Caspar Barry says:

This spaghetti alla chittara recipe is a game-changer! The fresh tomatoes and basil create a burst of flavor, and the garlic adds a delightful kick. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to prepare, and the end result is a delicious, restaurant-quality dish. I highly recommend trying it out!

Caspar Barry

Key Techniques for Mastering Spaghetti alla Chittara

How to cook spaghetti: Boil water and add the spaghetti, cooking for 7 to 9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

How to make the tomato sauce: Dice the tomatoes and thinly slice the basil. Heat a saucepan, pour in the olive oil, and add the tomatoes and fresh basil. Stir for 5 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

How to season the pasta: Mix the cooked pasta into the tomato sauce, and add salt to taste.

How to serve: Enjoy the spaghetti alla chittara with your favorite accompaniments.

How To Make Spaghetti Alla Chittara

This egg-based pasta is great for quick and easy spaghetti dishes. For this spaghetti Alla chittara, we are using tomatoes and basil for flavor.

Preparation:

Cooking:

Total:

Serves:

Ingredients

1pkgspaghetti
4Roma tomatoes
½cupolive oil
⅓basil,fresh
⅛cupgarlic,fresh
salt,to taste

Instructions

Boil water for pasta.
Cook for 7 to 9 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
Dice tomatoes and thinly slice basil.
Heat sauce pan for 3 minutes. Pour olive oil in saucepan.
Add tomatoes and fresh basil.
Stir for 5 minutes. Add garlic.
Mix in pasta. Add salt to taste.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 2705.47kcal
Fat: 115.43g
Saturated Fat: 16.25g
Monounsaturated Fat: 79.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 14.17g
Carbohydrates: 353.54g
Fiber: 17.84g
Sugar: 18.79g
Protein: 62.36g
Sodium: 1922.40mg
Calcium: 154.12mg
Potassium: 1669.55mg
Iron: 7.49mg
Vitamin A: 105.92µg
Vitamin C: 39.40mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Spaghetti alla Chittara

When preparing your spaghetti alla chittara, it's important to remember that the quality of your ingredients can greatly affect the final result. Using fresh basil and ripe roma tomatoes will give your dish a vibrant, fresh flavor. Additionally, don't rush the sautéing process. Allow the garlic to cook slowly in the olive oil to release its full flavor before adding the tomatoes and basil. This will create a more robust and flavorful sauce for your pasta.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Save time by prepping ingredients in advance, such as chopping vegetables or measuring out spices, so they are ready to go when you start cooking.

One-pot wonders: Choose recipes that can be made in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.

Batch cooking: Cook large quantities of certain ingredients, such as grains or proteins, and use them in multiple dishes throughout the week to save time on meal prep.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking tools, saving time and reducing stress during meal preparation.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to maximize efficiency, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for water to boil, to save time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti Alla Chittara Recipe

spaghetti - Substitute with linguine: Linguine is a great substitute for spaghetti in this recipe as it has a similar texture and thickness, and will hold the sauce well.
roma tomatoes - Substitute with vine-ripened tomatoes: Vine-ripened tomatoes have a similar sweet and tangy flavor to Roma tomatoes, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
basil - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for basil, adding a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a mild and sweet onion flavor to the dish.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, adding a slightly briny flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for Spaghetti alla Chittara

Elevate the pasta: Create a nest of spaghetti using a pair of tongs, and carefully place it in the center of the plate. This will give the dish a refined and elegant look.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves around the edge of the plate to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
Drizzle with olive oil: Use a steady hand to drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of the pasta, creating a beautiful sheen and enhancing the overall flavor.
Add a touch of sea salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the dish just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a delightful crunch.
Plate with precision: Use a pair of tongs to carefully twirl the pasta into a neat mound, ensuring that each strand is elegantly presented on the plate.
Incorporate fresh tomatoes: Place diced roma tomatoes strategically around the pasta to add a burst of color and a juicy, refreshing element to the dish.
Emphasize the aroma: Just before serving, give the dish a gentle shake to release the fragrant aroma of the basil and tomatoes, creating an enticing sensory experience for the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spaghetti alla Chittara

Boiling pot: A large pot used for boiling water and cooking pasta or other ingredients.
Saucepan: A small, deep pan with a long handle, used for cooking sauces, vegetables, or other small portions of food.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A sturdy board used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and holding food.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used for grating cheese or vegetables.
Peeler: A tool used for removing the outer skin or peel of fruits and vegetables.
Olive oil dispenser: A container used for dispensing olive oil.
Stirring spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Salt shaker: A container with small holes used for dispensing salt.

Storing and Freezing Spaghetti alla Chittara for Later

To store leftover spaghetti alla chittara, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating refrigerated spaghetti alla chittara, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of water or olive oil if the pasta seems dry.
To freeze spaghetti alla chittara, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat frozen spaghetti alla chittara, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat using the microwave or stovetop method mentioned above. If the pasta seems dry after thawing, add a small amount of water or olive oil when reheating to restore moisture.
For best results, freeze the pasta and sauce separately. This allows you to adjust the amount of sauce when reheating and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. To do this, freeze the cooled pasta and sauce in separate freezer-safe containers or bags.
If you have leftover tomatoes or basil, you can chop them up and freeze them in ice cube trays with a little olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable plastic bag for easy portioning in future recipes.

How To Reheat Leftover Spaghetti alla Chittara

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spaghetti alla chittara in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pasta and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the spaghetti alla chittara in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover pasta and toss it in the hot oil for 3-5 minutes or until it's heated through and slightly crispy.
For a more flavorful twist, you can add some fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice to the reheated pasta. These additions can help to brighten up the flavors and make the dish taste fresh again.
If you have a lot of leftover spaghetti alla chittara, you can transform it into a new dish by turning it into a frittata. Beat some eggs in a bowl, add the leftover pasta, and any other desired ingredients like vegetables, cheese, or herbs. Pour the mixture into an oven-safe skillet and bake until set and golden brown.

Budget-Friendly: Making Spaghetti alla Chittara at Home

The spaghetti alla chittara recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as spaghetti, tomatoes, olive oil, and basil, are generally affordable and readily available. The simplicity of the recipe also makes it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it an economical choice. As a culinary chef, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious flavors.

Is Spaghetti alla Chittara a Healthy Choice?

This spaghetti alla chittara recipe is a simple and tasty dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. The main concerns are the high amount of olive oil and the lack of protein and fiber in the dish. Olive oil, while a healthy fat, is still high in calories and should be used in moderation. The recipe also lacks a significant source of protein, which is essential for a balanced meal. Additionally, the dish is primarily composed of simple carbohydrates from the pasta, which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe to about 2-3 tablespoons, which is still enough to sauté the tomatoes and garlic
Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to increase the protein content of the dish and make it more satiating
Incorporate more vegetables into the recipe, such as sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients
Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta instead of regular spaghetti to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates
Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and a boost of calcium

Editor's Take on the Spaghetti alla Chittara Recipe

This spaghetti alla chittara recipe is a classic Italian dish that showcases the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients. The combination of ripe roma tomatoes, fragrant basil, and pungent garlic creates a vibrant and flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the al dente spaghetti. The use of olive oil adds a rich and luxurious mouthfeel to the dish. However, to elevate the flavors, consider adding a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory finish. Overall, this recipe is a delightful representation of traditional Italian cuisine.

Enhance Your Spaghetti Alla Chittara Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy garlic bread would complement the flavors of the spaghetti alla chittara perfectly. The buttery, garlicky goodness will leave you wanting more.

Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, would add a healthy and vibrant touch to your meal. The smoky charred flavors will balance out the richness of the pasta dish.

Tiramisu: For a decadent and indulgent dessert, a classic tiramisu would be the perfect way to end your meal. The creamy layers of mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Similar Pasta Recipes to Try

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the sweetness of mango with the savory taste of chicken. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory that will tantalize your taste buds.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and hearty quinoa. It's a perfect dish for a light and nutritious meal that's bursting with flavor.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of this classic berry cobbler. The combination of juicy berries and buttery crumble topping is a delightful treat for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Spaghetti alla Chittara

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms, filled with a rich and creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs.

Bruschetta: Satisfy your cravings with these crispy and flavorful bruschetta, topped with a vibrant medley of fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic, drizzled with a hint of balsamic glaze.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing and satisfying treat.

Why trust this Spaghetti Alla Chittara Recipe:

This recipe for spaghetti alla chittara is a trusted classic, using only the freshest ingredients. The spaghetti is cooked to perfection, ensuring a delightful texture. The roma tomatoes are a symbol of quality and flavor, while the olive oil adds a rich and authentic taste. The basil and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic goodness, elevating the overall experience. Trust in the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delightful Italian meal.

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FAQ:

What type of pasta is best for spaghetti alla chittara?

I recommend using spaghetti for this recipe. The long, thin strands of spaghetti work well with the fresh tomato and basil sauce.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. However, using fresh tomatoes will give the dish a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

Is there a substitute for basil if I don't have it?

If you don't have basil, you can use other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano. They will add a different flavor profile but will still complement the dish nicely.

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicy?

If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking. This will give the dish a subtle kick of spiciness.