Spaghetti alla Carrettiera (Sicilian Style)

Introduction

Spaghetti alla Carrettiera is a traditional Sicilian pasta dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of southern Italy. Known for its simplicity and robust flavors, this dish uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a comforting meal that has been enjoyed by generations of Sicilians.

The History

This dish originated in the province of Palermo, where it was traditionally prepared by carrettieri, or cart drivers, who needed a hearty meal to sustain them during long days of work. These laborers would often cook their meals over open fires using whatever ingredients were readily available, such as tomatoes, garlic, onions, anchovies, and bread crumbs. Over time, Spaghetti alla Carrettiera evolved into a beloved regional specialty, celebrated for its rustic charm and bold flavor profile.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Spaghetti: The star ingredient of this dish, providing the perfect vehicle for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned San Marzano tomatoes form the base of the sauce, offering a sweet yet tangy taste.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Onions: Sweetened during cooking, they contribute a caramelized sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Anchovies: Dissolve into the sauce, imparting an umami-rich savoriness without making the dish overly fishy.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for achieving authentic Sicilian flavors.
• Breadcrumbs: Toasted until golden brown, breadcrumbs add texture and a nutty crunch to the final dish.
• Parsley: Used both as a garnish and mixed into the breadcrumb topping, parsley provides freshness and color.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but highly recommended, these flakes bring a subtle heat that enhances the overall complexity of the dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and lightly golden. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add Anchovies: If using anchovies, crush them with the back of a fork and stir them into the onion mixture until they dissolve completely.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes (or passata) and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Let the sauce reduce slightly for about 15–20 minutes.
5. Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a separate pan, toast breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
6. Combine Everything: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the tomato sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency. Serve hot, topped generously with the crispy breadcrumb mixture.

Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients, especially for the tomatoes and olive oil, as they are the foundation of the dish.
• Don’t skip the anchovies—they provide the umami kick that makes this dish so satisfying.
• Toasting the breadcrumbs separately ensures they stay crunchy even after being added to the dish.
• If you prefer more heat, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
• For an extra layer of richness, finish the dish with a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice or grated Parmesan cheese (though purists might argue against this).

Variations and Customizations

While traditional Spaghetti alla Carrettiera remains simple and unadorned, there are several ways to personalize the recipe:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the anchovies and substitute them with capers or olives for added brininess.
• Protein Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, pancetta, or grilled eggplant for additional texture and flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like basil or oregano to complement the parsley in the breadcrumb topping.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or omit them altogether.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Spaghetti alla Carrettiera is relatively healthy when made with whole grain pasta and minimal oil. It’s rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and heart-healthy fats from olive oil. However, portions should be monitored due to the calorie content of the breadcrumbs and potential sodium levels from anchovies. For those watching their carb intake, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash can serve as low-carb substitutes.

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8–10 anchovy fillets (optional)
• 400g canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup dry breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Reserved pasta water, as needed

Directions

Follow the step-by-step recipe above for detailed instructions on how to prepare Spaghetti alla Carrettiera. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the process to ensure balanced flavors.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and reheat it gently when ready to serve. However, the breadcrumbs should be toasted just before serving for optimal crunchiness.

What’s the best type of pasta to use?

Traditional recipes call for spaghetti, but linguine or bucatini can also work well. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to maintain its texture.

Why do we need anchovies if I don’t like fishy flavors?

Anchovies melt into the sauce, contributing umami rather than a strong fishy taste. If omitted, consider enhancing the dish with Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for similar results.

Is it necessary to toast the breadcrumbs?

Toasting brings out their natural oils and creates a delightful crunch. Untoasted breadcrumbs may become soggy once mixed with the sauce.

Summary

Spaghetti alla Carrettiera is a quintessential Sicilian pasta dish characterized by its rich tomato sauce, savory anchovies, and crispy breadcrumb topping. This easy-to-make recipe celebrates fresh, local ingredients while delivering layers of flavor in every bite.