Spaghetti Alla Chitarra With Tomato Broccoli Sauce

Pasta alla chitarra is a specialty of the Abruzzo region in Italy, where it is commonly served with rich tomato-based sauces. It has a unique texture and appearance that sets it apart from other types of pasta.

Why You’ll Love This

• A vegan twist on the classic Italian dish, Spaghetti alla Chitarra, that is both flavorful and satisfying.
• The combination of tender broccoli, tangy tomato marinara sauce, and creamy vegan cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
• This recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike.
• It's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

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What is Alla Chitarra?

"Alla chitarra" pasta is a traditional Italian pasta variety that is named after the tool used to make it. The chitarra, which means "guitar" in Italian, is a wooden frame with parallel wires stretched across it. The pasta dough is pressed through these wires, resulting in square-shaped noodles with a slightly textured surface.

The alla chitarra pasta is typically made with durum wheat semolina and water, creating a firm and chewy texture when cooked. It is commonly served with rich and hearty sauces, such as ragù (meat sauce) or tomato-based sauces with meat or vegetables. The square shape of the pasta allows it to hold the sauce well, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• Onion – A versatile, aromatic vegetable that adds depth and natural sweetness to dishes when sautéed or caramelized.
• Garlic – A pungent and flavorful bulb that enhances dishes with its rich, savory taste, especially when roasted or minced.
• Olive oil – A smooth, golden oil extracted from olives, commonly used for sautéing, dressing, or adding richness to dishes.
• Seasoning – A blend of herbs and spices that enhances flavors, often including ingredients like oregano, basil, thyme, or salt.
• Broccoli – A vibrant green vegetable with a slightly bitter and earthy taste, adding texture and nutrients to meals.
• Vegan cheese – A plant-based alternative to traditional cheese, often made from nuts, soy, or tapioca, providing a creamy, melty texture.
• Tomatoes – Juicy, red fruits with a sweet-tart flavor, commonly used fresh or cooked to add brightness to dishes.
• Marinara sauce – A rich, tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, and herbs, offering a savory and slightly tangy flavor.
• Alla chitarra pasta (Trader Joe’s) – A traditional square-cut Italian pasta with a firm texture, perfect for absorbing sauces.

How to make

• Cook the vegan spaghetti alla chitarra according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
• Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they become tender-crisp.
• Pour the tomato marinara sauce into the skillet and stir well to combine with the onions and broccoli. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to heat through.
• Add the cooked vegan spaghetti alla chitarra to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can also add additional herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
• Sprinkle the grated vegan cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the cheese to melt for a few minutes.
• Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat and serve the vegan spaghetti alla chitarra with broccoli immediately.

Variations

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables of your choice, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
• Experiment with different vegan cheeses: Try using different types of vegan cheese, such as vegan cheddar or a blend of different vegan cheeses, to add variety to the dish.
• Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier flavor, add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the tomato marinara sauce.

Faq

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! You can substitute the vegan spaghetti alla chitarra with gluten-free pasta to accommodate your dietary needs.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While it's best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when ready to serve. Keep the cooked pasta, sautéed broccoli, and tomato marinara sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the components and follow the assembly steps.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: It's not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the pasta and broccoli may become mushy upon thawing.

Enjoy this vegan twist on Spaghetti alla Chitarra, featuring tender broccoli, tangy tomato marinara sauce, and creamy vegan cheese. It's a delightful and satisfying dish that will please your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished. Get creative with variations and make it your own. Bon appétit!