Spaghetti alla Felice: A Delightful Italian Dish You’ll Love

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If you’ve been searching for “Spaghetti alla Felice,” you’re likely curious about this delicious Italian dish that balances simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re looking for the recipe, a place to try it, or insights into its origins, this guide has you covered.

What is Spaghetti alla Felice?

Spaghetti alla Felice is a fresh and vibrant pasta dish inspired by a traditional recipe from Felice a Testaccio, a family-owned trattoria in Rome, Italy. The dish is a symphony of flavors, combining:

  • Cherry tomatoes: Firm, vine-ripened, and sweet.
  • Herbs: Fresh basil, mint, and a pinch of dried oregano.
  • Ricotta: A mix of creamy fresh ricotta and grated salted ricotta.
  • Olive oil: High-quality, extra-virgin olive oil enhances the flavors.

This recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking—using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a dish that’s both simple and flavorful.

spaghetti alla felice

How to Make Spaghetti alla Felice at Home

Here’s a step-by-step recipe for 4 servings:
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Ingredients
  

  • 400 g dried spaghetti
  • 500 g sweet cherry tomatoes quartered
  • 5 tbsp high-quality olive oil
  • 4 basil leaves ripped
  • 4 mint leaves ripped
  • A pinch of dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 200 g fresh goat cheese ricotta
  • 100 g salted ricotta grated

Instructions
 

Marinate the Tomatoes:

  • In a large bowl, mix the quartered cherry tomatoes with basil, mint, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture marinate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook the Spaghetti:

  • Bring a large, deep pot of salted water to a rolling boil (1 liter per 100g of pasta, with 10g of salt per liter). Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.

Combine:

  • Drain the spaghetti and immediately toss it with the marinated tomatoes, ensuring the marinade coats every strand.

Serve:

  • Divide the pasta into bowls, top with grated salted ricotta, and finish with a dollop of fresh ricotta. Serve immediately.

Where to Try Spaghetti alla Felice

If you’re visiting Rome, stop by Felice a Testaccio for an authentic taste. Located in the Testaccio neighborhood, this trattoria has been serving traditional Roman cuisine since 1936. Don’t miss their famous tonnarelli cacio e pepe or the exquisite Spaghetti alla Felice.

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti alla Felice

  1. Choose Quality Ingredients:
    • Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and the best olive oil you can find. Opt for whole-milk ricotta without stabilizers for the best texture and flavor.
  2. Herbs in Moderation:
    • Use a balanced mix of herbs, such as basil and mint, for freshness. If adding marjoram or oregano, use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
  3. Cook Pasta Properly:
    • Always use a deep pot for boiling spaghetti and salt the water well to enhance the pasta’s flavor.

FAQ about Spaghetti alla Felice

  1. What makes this dish special?
    • The perfect balance of creamy ricotta, sweet tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a light yet satisfying dish.
  2. Can I modify the recipe?
    • Feel free to experiment with herbs or adjust the level of ricotta to suit your taste.
  3. Is it vegetarian?
    • Yes, the recipe is entirely vegetarian!

Bring a Taste of Rome to Your Kitchen

With this recipe, you can recreate the magic of Spaghetti alla Felice at home. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to delight.

Buon appetito! 🌿