Penne all’Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s all about bold, spicy flavors. The name “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry,” a nod to the fiery heat of the chili peppers used in the sauce. The sauce is a simple yet flavorful combination of tomatoes, garlic, and chili, tossed with al dente penne pasta. It’s a dish that’s easy to make but delivers big on taste, perfect for those who love their pasta with a bit of a kick. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a satisfying meal.
Penne all’Arrabbiata (Spicy Tomato Pasta)
Ingredients
- 400 g penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 can 400g crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can become bitter.
- Stir in the red chili flakes, adjusting the amount based on your heat preference. Cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the chili to infuse the oil with its spicy flavor.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and chili. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and become rich in flavor.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and basil, giving the dish a fresh and aromatic touch.
- Transfer the Penne all'Arrabbiata to serving plates and enjoy.