Method

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti

Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon) to the water.

Cook the Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Heat Oil: While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as it can become bitter.

Add Sea Urchin: Gently add the sea urchin to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Season: If desired, add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Drain Pasta: Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest in a colander.

Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sea urchin sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

Finish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and toss again. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Garnish: Serve the spaghetti warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Variations

Seafood Additions: You can enhance the dish by adding other seafood such as shrimp or scallops.

Vegetarian Option: Replace sea urchin with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian alternative.