Squid Ink Pasta: What It Is and How to Cook It (Easy Recipe)

Squid ink pasta is jet-black pasta colored with cephalopod ink. It has a subtle briny, savory flavor that makes it a natural partner for seafood, and it turns any plate into a showstopper.

What does squid ink pasta taste like?

Mostly like good pasta, with a gentle hint of the sea. The ink adds color and a savory, slightly briny depth rather than a strong fishy taste. Keep sauces simple so that flavor comes through.

How to cook squid ink pasta

• Boil in well-salted water for the time on the package, tasting a minute early.
• Do not add cream-heavy sauces; olive oil, garlic, chili, lemon and seafood work best.
• The color can stain wooden spoons and light cutting boards a little; rinse quickly.

Easy squid ink pasta with shrimp, garlic and chili

Serves: 2 · Prep: 10 min · Cook: 12 min

Ingredients

• 1 pack (8.8 oz) Néssi Squid Ink Farfalle
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Sea salt

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Meanwhile, warm the olive oil with the garlic and chili over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink. Add the tomatoes and wine and simmer 2 minutes.
4. Add the drained pasta, lemon zest and juice and a splash of pasta water. Toss for 1 minute.
5. Finish with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

More ways to serve squid ink pasta

• With clams or mussels in white wine
• With seared scallops and brown butter
• With calamari, capers and lemon
• As a dramatic Halloween or New Year's Eve dish

Allergy note: squid ink pasta contains mollusk ink and wheat; always check the label.

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