Spaghetti with Spanish flavours
Ingredients
- 80g Chorizo
- 300g Spaghetti
- 20g Parsley
- 2 Red Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 50g Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pan of water to a rapid boil. While it heats, cut the chorizo into thin strips, finely chop the parsley and slice the red peppers, removing any seeds.
- Salt the boiling water generously, add the spaghetti, stir and return to the boil. Cook for about 3 minutes until just starting to soften.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chorizo and peppers, season with plenty of black pepper and cook for about 1 minute, until the chorizo releases its red oils and the peppers begin to soften.
- Scoop out about half a mug of the pasta cooking water and set aside. Drain the spaghetti and transfer it straight to the frying pan.
- Add the parsley and grated Parmesan, toss well and splash in some of the reserved pasta water to loosen and coat the pasta.
- Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan passed at the table.
Tips
- Sauté the chorizo first until it releases its vibrant red oil, then use that oil to cook the garlic and onions.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry sherry (Fino or Manzanilla) to add an authentic nutty acidity.
- Use high-quality smoked paprika (Pimentón de la Vera) to provide that signature earthy depth.
Variations
- Seafood Twist: Add sautéed prawns or clams in the last few minutes for a ‘Mar y Montaña’ style dish.
- Vegetarian: Omit chorizo and use sun-dried tomatoes and smoked paprika to replicate the flavor profile.
Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with toasted slivered almonds and fresh flat-leaf parsley for crunch and brightness.
- Serve alongside a simple salad of sliced tomatoes and red onion with sherry vinaigrette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a traditional Spanish dish?
Which chorizo should I use?
Can I add cheese?
instructions_source: editorial-classic