⭐Must-Have Products I Use & Recommend!⭐
Personal Note
I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
I'll never forget the first time I tried Calabrian chili oil. A friend, Luca, brought some back from a trip to Italy, raving about its unique flavor. At first, I was a bit intimidated—I'm not always the best with spice. But one taste, and I was hooked! It's not just heat; it's a complex, fruity, smoky flavor that elevates everything it touches. I knew I had to find a way to incorporate it into my everyday cooking. That's how this pasta dish was born. Simple, satisfying, and with just the right kick, it's become a staple in my kitchen, and I'm so excited to share it with you!
This Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil Pasta recipe is unbelievably quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. The star of the show, of course, is the Calabrian chili oil, which infuses the pasta with a deep, rich flavor and a delightful kick. But don't worry, if you're not a fan of intense heat, you can easily adjust the amount of chili oil to suit your taste. And, don't even get me started on what is so good about it, the simple elegance of this dish is really something else!
Whether you're looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil Pasta is sure to be a hit. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta and add your own favorite toppings, such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless! Who doesn't like a simple yet delicious meal? I made this for my family and they can't get enough of it!
Required Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Measuring spoons
- Chef's knife
Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil Pasta: Frequently Asked Questions
Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil Pasta
Craving a fiery pasta dish that's both simple and bursting with flavor? This Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil Pasta is your answer! A quick and easy recipe featuring the intense heat of Calabrian chilies, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, perfect for a weeknight meal.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial; well-salted water is key to flavoring the pasta itself.
- Add your favorite pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well) to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Undercooking by a minute or two ensures the pasta doesn't become mushy when added to the sauce.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the Calabrian chili oil sauce. In a large skillet, heat the Calabrian chili oil over medium heat. Be careful not to overheat the oil, as it can burn and become bitter.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. Burnt garlic will ruin the flavor of the entire dish. I always watch the garlic like a hawk!
- Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) for an extra kick. Remember, Calabrian chili oil is already quite spicy, so adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. A little sweetness goes a long way in this dish.
- Once the pasta is cooked al dente, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help create a creamy, emulsified sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the Calabrian chili oil sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Pour in a little of the reserved pasta water at a time, tossing constantly, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This is where the magic happens! The starchy water binds with the oil to create a luscious sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don't be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (if using). The Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor to the dish.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using). Fresh basil adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma to the pasta.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! This Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil Pasta is best enjoyed hot, so don't let it sit around for too long. Maybe serve with a side salad or some crusty bread.
📝 Notes
- Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili oil to suit your spice preference.
- For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or grilled vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 4 g
Calcium: 80 mg
