Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare – A Delightful Italian Seafood Pasta
Category: Pasta Dishes
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this luxurious and fresh Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare (Spaghetti with Sea Urchin). This recipe combines the delicate sweetness of sea urchins, known for their rich and briny taste, with tender zucchini and a touch of white wine. It’s a perfect dish for seafood lovers who appreciate a light yet indulgent pasta experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 320g |
| Sea Urchins (Ricci di mare) | 1kg |
| Zucchini | 300g |
| White Wine | 60g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 30g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Sodium | 410mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sea Urchins
To begin making your Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare, the first step is to prepare the sea urchins. Using a specialized sea urchin cutter or a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top of each sea urchin. Be cautious as the shells can be quite fragile. Once the top is removed, gently scoop out the bright orange roe (the eggs) using a spoon. This delicate roe is the star of this dish, so ensure you only collect the orange part, as it has the best flavor and texture. You should end up with approximately 70g of roe from 1 kg of sea urchins. Set the roe aside for later.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Next, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water, which will season the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente texture. When done, drain the spaghetti, but make sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Zucchini
While the pasta is cooking, wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Trim off both ends, then slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. From each half, cut into half-moon shapes approximately 1 cm thick. This will help the zucchini cook evenly while maintaining a bit of texture in the final dish.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Zucchini
In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the whole garlic clove, which has been peeled and had its green sprout removed. Gently fry the garlic for a couple of minutes, allowing its flavors to infuse the oil. Once the garlic becomes golden, remove it from the pan. Add the sliced zucchini to the pan and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the zucchini to soften slightly but still retain some bite. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add the Sea Urchin Roe
After the zucchini has cooked, it’s time to introduce the sea urchin roe into the pan. Add the roe gently, stirring it into the zucchini mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the roe to warm up and blend with the zucchini, creating a creamy texture. The roe will melt slightly, creating a beautiful sauce that will coat the pasta later.
Step 6: Deglaze with White Wine
To enhance the flavor, pour in the white wine, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate, leaving behind a subtle, crisp flavor that complements the richness of the sea urchins.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the pan with the zucchini and sea urchin roe. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors from the sauce. If the sauce seems a bit dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve a creamier consistency. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well mixed, turn off the heat and serve your Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare immediately. The pasta should be glossy and coated with the delicate sea urchin sauce, with the zucchini adding a fresh crunch. Garnish with a little more freshly ground black pepper, if desired, and enjoy this luxurious Italian dish that’s sure to impress.
Tips for Success
- Freshness is Key: The quality of the sea urchins will make all the difference in this dish. Look for fresh, high-quality roe for the best flavor.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta cooking water is rich in starch and will help bind the sauce to the pasta, giving it a creamy texture.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino pairs beautifully with this seafood pasta.
This Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare is an elegant yet simple way to enjoy the delicate flavors of the sea. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious dinner at home. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish will transport you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Italy.
