Pasta Alla Bersagliera
(ber-sah-GLEH-rah)
FAQ
What does “Bersagliera” mean?
Bersagliera takes its name from the Bersaglieri, an elite Italian military unit. The dish is traditionally associated with bold, lively flavours and a hint of spice from the chili peppers.
Is Pasta alla Bersagliera spicy?
Traditionally, yes, but it’s easy to adjust. Use less chili for a milder version or add extra if you enjoy more heat.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Linguine, bucatini, fettuccine, or even penne work well with this sauce.
Why do I need to reserve pasta water?
The starch in pasta water helps bring the sauce together and gives it that smooth, restaurant-style finish instead of a dry or oily coating.
Chef’s Tips
- Reserve plenty of pasta water before draining. It’s the secret to a silky sauce that clings to every strand.
- Keep the garlic lightly golden, not brown. Burnt garlic can make the entire dish bitter.
- Don’t skimp on the Pecorino Romano. Its salty, tangy flavour is what really brings everything together.
- Toss the pasta well in the sauce for the best texture and flavour.
Pasta Alla Bersagliera
Some of the best pasta dishes are the ones that keep things simple. Pasta alla Bersagliera combines garlic, chili, olive oil, and tomato paste into a silky sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. Finished with fresh parsley and a generous shower of Pecorino Romano, it’s a quick, flavorful pasta that’s perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 200 g (about 7oz) spaghetti
- 2 tbs tomato paste
- 2-3 cloves garlic sliced
- 1-2 small red chili peppers or 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tbs olive oil
- 1 handful cherry tomatoes optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup Reserved pasta water adjust as you go
- Freshly grated Pecorino Romano for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and chili peppers and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is lightly golden and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute to deepen its flavour. If using cherry tomatoes, add them now and cook until they begin to soften.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water and stir until a light sauce forms.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat. Add more pasta water as needed until the sauce becomes glossy and silky.
- Stir in the parsley and season with salt to taste.
- Divide between bowls and finish with plenty of freshly grated Pecorino Romano and additional parsley.
- Serve immediately & Enjoy.
Notes
- Cherry tomatoes add a little sweetness and freshness but can be omitted.
- A squeeze of lemon at the end adds a bright, fresh finish.
- For a little extra texture, top with toasted breadcrumbs before serving.
- A drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds even more flavour.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended. The sauce is best enjoyed fresh and the pasta texture can become soft after thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
- Add fresh Pecorino Romano and parsley after reheating for the best flavour.
Tried this recipe?
Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife
Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife
2 responses to “Pasta Alla Bersagliera”
I love this recipe! I was looking for some comfort food and this dish really has hit the spot. So much healthier than a shop/store bought tomato sauce. My kitchen smelt wonderful afterwards too.
I made it with fresh egg pasta so it is a super quick recipe. I ate it in less than 10 minutes, it was that delicious!
This is my definite new go to. I made it for my partner and they loved it as well.
Thank you for bringing this recipe into my life!
I’m so happy it hit that comfort food spot for you. Fresh egg pasta with it sounds unreal, I might have to try that myself now.
The fact that it’s your new go-to and that your partner loved it too is amazing. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment!