Teresa's Recipes
Penne al Arrabbiata
Penne al Arrabbiata is a fiery and flavorful Italian pasta dish that captures the essence of rustic Italian cuisine. Originating from the Lazio region, this dish translates to 'angry pasta' in English, a name that reflects its spicy kick from red chili flakes. The combination of al dente penne pasta, vibrant crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil creates a deliciously bold meal that is both comforting and invigorating. Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their food, this dish is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon (or more for extra heat) Red chili flakes
- 28 ounces Canned crushed tomatoes
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 cup, chopped Fresh basil
- 1/2 cup, grated (for serving) Parmesan cheese
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 65g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Season the sauce with salt to taste, adjusting the level of spice according to your preference.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to thoroughly coat the pasta with the spicy tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the chopped fresh basil, reserving some for garnish.
- Serve the Penne al Arrabbiata hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Tips
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or omit them altogether.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread.