why make this recipe
Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors. It combines the heat of red pepper flakes with the rich taste of garlic and tomatoes, making it a favorite for those who love spicy food. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend dinner. Plus, it’s vegetarian, allowing it to fit a variety of dietary preferences.
how to make Penne Arrabbiata
Ingredients:
- 200g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 400g canned tomatoes, crushed
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add salt to taste, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
how to serve Penne Arrabbiata
Serve Penne Arrabbiata in a shallow bowl or plate. You can garnish it with fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. If you like cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the dish before serving. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to make a complete meal.
how to store Penne Arrabbiata
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or olive oil while reheating.
tips to make Penne Arrabbiata
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Use fresh tomatoes if you prefer; just chop them up and let them cook down in the skillet.
- For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it’s simmering.
- Make sure not to overcook the penne; al dente pasta has a nice bite to it, which enhances the dish.
variation
You can easily customize Penne Arrabbiata by adding ingredients like spinach, olives, or even shrimp for added protein. Another variation is to make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, but penne is preferred for its ability to hold onto the sauce.
Is Penne Arrabbiata suitable for vegans?
Yes, it is vegan if you skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
How spicy is Penne Arrabbiata?
The spiciness can be adjusted by how much red pepper flakes you add. A teaspoon gives a nice warmth but feel free to add more if you like it hot!
Penne Arrabbiata
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Italian dish with bold flavors, combining spicy red pepper flakes and rich tomatoes, perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend dinner.
Ingredients
- 200g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 400g canned tomatoes, crushed
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add salt to taste, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste. For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine while simmering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
