Sicilian Pasta with Breadcrumbs (25 Minutes)

Print

Print Recipe

Sicilian pasta with breadcrumbs, or Pasta Ca’ Muddica, is a traditional Sicilian dish that is both humble and full of flavor. This dish is a testament to the ingenuity of Sicilian cuisine, turning simple ingredients into a delicious meal.

It features pasta coated in a mixture of toasted breadcrumbs, often flavored with garlic, anchovies, and herbs.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful texture contrast between the soft pasta and the crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or for anyone seeking to enjoy the simple pleasures of Italian cooking.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or bucatini)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and red pepper flakes to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta (10 minutes): Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
  2. Toast Breadcrumbs (5 minutes): In a skillet, heat half of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring constantly, until golden and crispy. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Anchovies (3 minutes): In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and anchovy fillets (if using). Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies have melted into the oil.
  4. Combine Pasta with Breadcrumbs (2 minutes): Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and anchovy oil. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs and chopped parsley over the pasta. Toss again to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to moisten.
  5. Season and Serve (2 minutes): Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

The key to a perfect Pasta Ca’ Muddica is in the breadcrumbs. They should be toasted to a golden brown, offering a crunchy contrast to the tender pasta.

The anchovies add a depth of umami flavor, but they can be omitted for a vegetarian version. This dish is best served immediately after preparation to enjoy the crispness of the breadcrumbs.

It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that highlights the beauty of using basic ingredients to create something delicious!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/sicilian-pasta-with-breadcrumbs-25-minutes/