Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: spicy arrabbiata pasta! There’s something about that rich, tangy tomato sauce combined with a kick of heat that just makes my taste buds sing. I remember the first time I made it—I was rushing to whip up dinner for some friends, and this dish came together in no time. It was a hit! The best part? You can have this flavorful meal on your table in just 30 minutes. Seriously, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you just want to indulge in something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish. I promise, it’s super straightforward, and you might already have some of these ingredients in your pantry!
- 200g penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust based on how spicy you like it!)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Make sure to use minced garlic for that rich flavor, and don’t skimp on the red pepper flakes if you want that authentic spice kick! The crushed tomatoes are essential for a luscious sauce that brings everything together. Get ready to create something delicious!
How to Prepare Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta
Now, let’s get cooking! This spicy arrabbiata pasta comes together in a matter of minutes, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process. Grab your apron, and let’s dive in!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You’ll want about 4-5 quarts of water to give the pasta room to move around—trust me, it makes a difference! Once boiling, add the 200g of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. This means it should still have a little bite to it! Once done, reserve a cup of the pasta water (this is liquid gold for later), then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
While the pasta’s cooking, let’s whip up that incredible sauce! In a large pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Next, stir in the 400g can of crushed tomatoes and a sprinkle of salt. Let this simmer away for about 10 minutes. It should thicken up and become a luscious, vibrant sauce.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Now comes the fun part! Add the drained pasta right into the sauce. Toss it all together, making sure every piece of pasta is coated with that heavenly sauce. If it looks a bit too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up. It helps everything combine beautifully! Once it’s all mixed, you’re ready to serve up your spicy arrabbiata pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for that extra pop of flavor. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Okay, let’s make your spicy arrabbiata pasta even more fabulous! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the spice level to suit your taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding more red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick! Also, fresh ingredients truly elevate this dish. If you can get your hands on some ripe tomatoes, go for it! Just chop them up and toss them into the sauce instead of canned tomatoes for a fresher flavor.
Finally, don’t forget to taste as you go! A pinch of salt here and there can really bring out those gorgeous flavors. And remember, this dish is all about simplicity, so let those ingredients shine. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this delicious spicy arrabbiata pasta! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient usage, so they may vary slightly depending on what you choose to use.
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This dish is not only satisfying but also a great vegetarian option full of flavor. Enjoy every spicy, saucy bite without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this spicy arrabbiata pasta is its versatility. While I love using penne, you can easily swap it out for other shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may cook at slightly different times, so be sure to check the package instructions. The key is to pick a pasta that holds onto that delicious sauce well!
How can I make it less spicy?
If you’re looking to tone down the heat a bit, no worries! You can simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking—start with just a pinch and taste as you go. Another option is to add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta at the end, which can mellow out the spiciness and add a lovely creaminess to the dish. Just remember, you can always add more spice later, but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in there!
What can I serve with spicy arrabbiata pasta?
This spicy arrabbiata pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes! I love serving it with a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon for a fresh crunch. Garlic bread is another classic choice—who doesn’t love a slice of buttery, garlicky goodness? You could even add some roasted vegetables on the side to round out the meal. Just think light and fresh to complement that rich, spicy sauce!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spicy arrabbiata pasta is just a joy to make and eat! Here are a few reasons why I think you’ll fall head over heels for it:
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal in a flash.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, red pepper flakes, and crushed tomatoes creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor—trust me, it’s a taste sensation!
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is not only delicious but also vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable Spice: You can easily adjust the heat level to your liking, whether you want it mild or fiery hot!
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you probably have most of these ingredients on hand already, which means less stress and more cooking fun!
So go ahead, give it a try! I promise you’re going to love every spicy, saucy bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about keeping those delicious leftovers fresh! If you happen to have any spicy arrabbiata pasta left (which is rare in my house!), you’ll want to store it properly to maintain that amazing flavor. First, let the pasta cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to prevent any drying out!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Just add the pasta to a pan over medium heat, and add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to help loosen things up. Stir it gently until heated through—this keeps it nice and saucy! You can also pop it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.
And if you’re feeling fancy, why not add a little fresh basil or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving? It’ll feel like a brand-new meal! Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Print
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta: 30 Minutes to Flavorful Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful spicy arrabbiata pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 200g penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and salt, simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, mix well.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: spicy arrabbiata pasta
