Pasta arrabiata is a spicy Italian dish loved for its bold, simple flavors. The word "arrabiata" means "angry" in Italian, referring to the heat of the chili flakes that give the sauce its signature kick.
This recipe combines fresh tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil with pasta to create a delicious, satisfying meal with just a few ingredients. It’s easy to make, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you like a little or a lot of spice, you can adjust this dish to suit your taste.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it relies on fresh, quality ingredients that bring out the best Italian flavors in every bite. The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and chili flakes creates a spicy, vibrant sauce that coats each piece of pasta perfectly. By cooking the garlic slowly in olive oil, you get a deep, aromatic base for the sauce, and simmering the tomatoes allows them to thicken naturally without needing many extra ingredients.
What’s great about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes, making it easy to customize to your preference. Plus, it’s a great option for busy days since it comes together quickly and requires minimal preparation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, pasta arrabiata is a flavorful choice that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Pasta (penne) - Traditional for arrabiata as it holds the sauce well. Use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti or rigatoni.
Tomatoes - Gives the sauce its base flavor. Fresh or canned tomatoes work; crushed tomatoes provide a smoother sauce.
Garlic - Adds depth and aroma. Substitute with garlic powder if needed, but fresh garlic is best.
Red Chili Flakes - Brings the heat to this spicy sauce. Adjust the amount to make it milder or spicier.
Olive Oil - Adds richness to the sauce. Substitute with a neutral oil if needed, but olive oil brings out authentic flavor.
Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
- Add salt to the pasta water to season the pasta as it cooks.
- Cook the garlic on low heat to avoid burning it and making it bitter.
- Adjust chili flakes based on your spice preference; arrabiata means “angry,” so it’s supposed to be spicy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and freshness.
How to Serve
Pasta arrabiata is best served warm, showcasing the bold flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and chili. This simple, spicy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal but also makes a great option for entertaining friends who enjoy a little kick in their pasta.
- Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Add a green salad on the side to balance the spiciness.
Similar Recipes
Pasta Arrabiata
Ingredients
- 200 g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 400g crushed tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil chopped, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for serving optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and red chili flakes to the skillet. Stir well and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Add salt to the pasta water to season the pasta as it cooks.
• Cook the garlic on low heat to avoid burning it and making it bitter.
• Adjust chili flakes based on your spice preference; arrabiata means “angry,” so it’s supposed to be spicy!
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and freshness.
good pasta recipe