Skip to main content

Spaghettini with Spicy Escarole and Pecorino Romano

This spaghettini with spicy escarole and pecorino romano is a sophisticated high-protein dish that strikes a perfect balance between bitter, salty, and spicy flavours. Escarole, a member of the chicory family, softens beautifully when simmered, creating a silky texture that pairs wonderfully with the delicate strands of spaghettini. The addition of anchovies provides a deep, savoury base that melts into the olive oil, while the crushed red pepper adds a gentle, warming heat to every bite.

Ideal for a quick midweek dinner or a light weekend lunch, this recipe is as nourishing as it is flavourful. The sharp, salty kick of the freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese brings the whole dish together, offering a traditional Italian finish. Serve it in warmed shallow bowls with an extra drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for a truly authentic homemade meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spaghettini with Spicy Escarole and Pecorino Romano

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • 3 anchovy fillets, chopped

  • 1/4 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 675g escarole (about 1 large head), cut into 1- to 2-inch strips

  • 240ml water

  • 450g spaghettini

  • Freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

How to make Spaghettini with Spicy Escarole and Pecorino Romano

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add anchovies and dried crushed red pepper; stir 1 minute. Add garlic; stir 30 seconds. Stir in escarole. Add 240ml water, cover pan, and reduce heat to low. Cook until escarole is tender, about 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain pasta, reserving 240ml cooking liquid.

Add pasta to escarole mixture and stir over low heat to combine, adding cooking liquid by tablespoonfuls to moisten if necessary. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Divide pasta among shallow bowls, sprinkle with cheese, and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.