Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish renowned for its fiery flavor, owed to the liberal use of red chili peppers in the rich tomato sauce. "Arrabbiata" translates to "angry" in Italian, accurately reflecting the heat and robust taste that this dish brings to the table. Simple yet satisfying, Penne Arrabbiata is a testament to the power of quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, offering a delightful, spicy kick that stimulates the senses and warms the heart. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a gourmet meal, this recipe is a favorite among spicy food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 400g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust according to heat preference)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Meanwhile, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
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Add the red chili flakes to the skillet and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds to infuse the oil with the chili flavor.
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Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
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Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
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Remove from heat and transfer the Penne Arrabbiata to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy, flavorful goodness of this traditional Italian dish.
Servings
This recipe serves 4 portions.
Nutritional Information per Serving
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 4% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips for Preparing the Recipe
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente (firm to the bite). It will continue to cook slightly when you mix it with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For best results, use fresh garlic, onions, and parsley. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the flavor.
- Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to your taste. If you prefer a milder arrabbiata, reduce the chili flakes.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of pasta water to reach the desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the penne.
- Simmering Time: Allow the sauce to simmer adequately to let the flavors meld together. A good 15-20 minutes should suffice.
- Garnish Right Before Serving: Fresh herbs like parsley should be added just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor and color.
Skill Level
Intermediate
Recipe Course and Cuisine
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Serving and Presentation Recommendations
Serve the Penne Arrabbiata immediately after preparing it to enjoy its fresh flavors. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Accompany it with a slice of crusty Italian bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Consider serving it in warmed bowls to keep the dish hot for longer. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving can also elevate the dish.
Storage Conditions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out. Penne Arrabbiata is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Carbohydrates: Great for energy supply, making it a good choice for active individuals.
- Low in Saturated Fats: Makes it a heart-friendly option.
- Tomato-based Sauce: Provides antioxidants such as lycopene which are beneficial for health.
- High Fiber Content: The pasta and tomato sauce both contribute to dietary fiber, which is good for digestive health.
- Protein: Provides plant-based protein from pasta, making it a balanced meal.
Recommendations for Vegans
The original recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. Nutritional yeast can be a great substitute to provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- Pasta Puttanesca
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- Spaghetti Marinara
- Fusilli with Spicy Marinara Sauce
Prepare with love and enjoy your flavorful culinary adventure with Penne Arrabbiata!
