If you’re looking to conjure up a show-stopping meal that’s equal parts dramatic and delicious, Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) is your ticket to culinary magic. This captivating black pasta, with its inky strands and fresh, zesty flavor, is a total crowd-pleaser—whether you’re hosting a spooky-themed dinner or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The combination of garlicky olive oil, a splash of wine, and bright lemon brings out the best in the squid ink pasta, while a sprinkle of parsley and Parmesan crowns it with perfection. This dish is as fun to serve as it is to eat, and I promise, it’ll have everyone at the table talking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) is refreshingly simple, but each element plays a starring role in building flavor and creating that showstopping color. Even the smallest addition—like a grating of lemon zest or a sprinkle of parsley—makes a difference in the final result.
- Squid ink pasta (12 ounces): The heart of the dish! Its deep black hue and subtle briny flavor set the stage for everything else.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Use a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil for rich mouthfeel and a silky sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses every bite with irresistible aroma and depth.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For just a hint of heat—add as much or as little as you like.
- Dry white wine or vegetable broth (1/2 cup): Wine adds brightness and complexity, while broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.
- Reserved pasta water (1/2 cup): This starchy liquid is the secret to a glossy, clingy sauce.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Adds a pop of citrusy fragrance and color.
- Lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon): Brings acidity to balance the richness and highlight the pasta’s unique flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Brightens every bite and adds a fresh, herbal note.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Don’t skimp—seasoning brings everything together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): For a savory, creamy finish—skip for a fully vegetarian version.
How to Make Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the squid ink pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out and reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—the sauce will thank you for it!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and, if you love a little kick, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for just a minute or two, stirring constantly. You want the garlic fragrant but not browned—think golden and aromatic.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine or Broth
Pour in the dry white wine or vegetable broth, letting it sizzle and reduce for a few minutes. This step not only lifts all the flavorful bits from the pan but also infuses the sauce with subtle depth. A gentle simmer is all it needs.
Step 4: Toss Pasta and Build the Sauce
Add the drained squid ink pasta directly to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water, then sprinkle in the lemon zest and squeeze over the lemon juice. Toss everything together until those dark, glossy strands are evenly coated and the aroma is downright irresistible.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. For a final flourish, serve the Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) hot, with a generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. This is your moment—dig in!
How to Serve Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta)
Garnishes
The simplest way to finish Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) is with a flurry of finely chopped parsley and a dusting of Parmesan cheese. For a little extra flair, add a twist of lemon zest or a few grinds of black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
This pasta is bold and flavorful, so it pairs beautifully with light sides. A crisp arugula salad with shaved fennel and a citrus vinaigrette is refreshing, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccolini add color and crunch. Crusty Italian bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a Halloween dinner, serve Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) in a wide white bowl to let the dramatic color pop. Tuck in a few edible flowers or nestle sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist. For a playful touch, swirl the pasta high in the center of the plate and top with a tiny sprig of parsley to look like wild, magical hair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and deepen a bit as it rests, so don’t hesitate to enjoy a second helping the next day!
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, let the pasta cool completely first. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It will keep for up to two months. For best results, freeze without Parmesan or fresh garnishes, and add those after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Warm over low heat, tossing gently until it’s heated through and the sauce returns to its silky state. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the noodles rubbery. Add fresh parsley or cheese just before serving for that “just-made” flavor.
FAQs
What does squid ink pasta taste like?
Squid ink pasta has a distinct, mildly briny flavor that’s both savory and subtly oceanic. It’s not fishy or overpowering, but rather adds a touch of depth that pairs beautifully with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
Can I make Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) without alcohol?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of white wine. You’ll still get a flavorful, aromatic sauce that complements the pasta’s unique taste.
Is squid ink pasta vegetarian?
The pasta itself typically contains squid ink, which is derived from seafood, so it’s not strictly vegetarian. However, if you’re pescatarian or comfortable with this ingredient, you can make the sauce 100% vegetarian by skipping the Parmesan or using a plant-based alternative.
Where can I buy squid ink pasta?
Look for squid ink pasta at Italian specialty stores, well-stocked supermarkets, or online retailers. If you’re feeling adventurous, some gourmet shops even sell fresh versions!
Can I add seafood to this dish?
Yes! Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) is fantastic with sautéed shrimp, scallops, or clams stirred in. Just cook your seafood separately and toss it with the pasta right before serving for a restaurant-worthy meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something unforgettable about serving Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta)—it’s dramatic, delicious, and always brings a sense of fun to the table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just want to try something new, I hope you fall in love with this magical pasta as much as I have. Give it a whirl, and let your kitchen feel a little more enchanted tonight!
Print
Witches Hair Pasta (Squid Ink Pasta) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Witches Hair Pasta, also known as Squid Ink Pasta, is a strikingly dark and flavorful Italian dish featuring squid ink pasta tossed in a garlicky, lemon-infused sauce with a hint of white wine or vegetable broth. This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for a dramatic Halloween dinner or any occasion where you want to impress with bold flavors and an eye-catching presentation.
Ingredients
Squid Ink Pasta
- 12 ounces squid ink pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving (Optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the squid ink pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the white wine or vegetable broth. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and deepen the flavors.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta is well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season and Garnish: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a final toss for even flavor distribution.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a seafood variation, add sautéed shrimp, scallops, or clams to enhance the oceanic flavors.
- To keep the recipe vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of white wine and omit any seafood additions.
- This pasta makes a fun and dramatic dish for Halloween dinners, thanks to its rich black color and bold garlic-lemon taste.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve pasta water carefully; it helps to marry sauce and pasta together nicely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
