Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its bold, spicy tomato sauce that delivers a fiery kick. The name “arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, a nod to the heat from chili peppers. This simple yet flavorful dish is a go-to for spice lovers who crave a quick, comforting meal with authentic Italian flair.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Ingredients:
- 300g (10.5 oz) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup (20g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup (20g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped chili peppers. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer the tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
- Spice up your pasta night with this fiery dish! Love bold flavors? Don’t miss our Pad Thai recipe.
Penne Arrabbiata Tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes, garlic, and chili for the most vibrant flavors.
- Don’t Overdo the Spice: Adjust the chili to your preferred heat level, but remember, “arrabbiata” means “angry,” so it should have a kick!
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta should have a firm bite to complement the bold sauce.
- Infuse the Oil: Sauté garlic and chili in olive oil to release their flavors before adding the tomatoes.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
- Pair this spicy dish with a refreshing salad or balance it with the creamy richness of Mac and Cheese
Penne Arrabbiata Variations:
- Extra Spicy Penne Arrabbiata: Add more red chili flakes or fresh hot peppers for extra heat.
- Vegetable Arrabbiata: Include sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Creamy Arrabbiata: Add a splash of cream or mascarpone to balance the spice.
- Cheesy Arrabbiata: Top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino for extra richness.
- Protein-Packed Arrabbiata: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a hearty meal.
- Gluten-Free Arrabbiata: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.
This Penne Arrabbiata recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a taste of Italy at home. Its bold flavors, spicy kick, and simple preparation make it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or dinner parties!
Discover more exciting pasta recipes:
- Shrimp Scampi Linguine: A garlic butter masterpiece.
- Pesto Pasta: Fresh and herbaceous for a lighter option.
- Lasagna Bolognese: Comfort food at its best with rich layers of flavor.