Penne all’Arrabbiata (spicy tomato pasta)

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Penne all’Arrabbiata is a spicy Italian pasta dish known for its bold flavors and fiery kick. “Arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, reflecting the dish’s heat from chili peppers. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines penne pasta with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce and just the right amount of spice, creating a satisfying and authentic Italian meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 400g (14 oz) penne or ziti (or other pasta of choice)
  • 1 tablespoon cooking salt (for boiling pasta)

For the Arrabbiata Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 red cayenne chili, finely chopped (with seeds for extra spice)
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (red pepper flakes)
  • 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons cooking salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, if tomatoes are sour)

For Serving:

  • Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 10 seconds.
  2. Add cayenne chili and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic is light golden.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. If needed, add sugar to balance the sauce’s acidity.
  4. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and let the sauce cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss well over medium heat until the sauce evenly coats the pasta.
  2. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

4. Serve:

  1. Divide the pasta into serving bowls.
  2. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 567
  • Protein: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 91 g
  • Fat: 16 g
    • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 1011 mg

Penne all’Arrabbiata is a quick and flavorful pasta dish perfect for spice lovers. Its simple ingredients and bold flavors make it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Buon appetito!

The Origin of Penne all’Arrabbiata

This dish originates from Rome and its surrounding areas, where the combination of garlic, olive oil, and spicy red chili peppers is a staple in traditional cooking. The simplicity of the recipe highlights the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients to achieve a rich and robust flavor profile. Historically, Penne all’Arrabbiata was a quick meal for workers, offering sustenance and heat during cold winters.

Over time, this humble dish gained international fame, becoming a favorite in Italian trattorias and home kitchens worldwide. Its universal appeal lies in its adaptability and the bold, comforting flavors it brings to the table.

Why Penne all’Arrabbiata Is a Must-Try Dish

  1. Simple Yet Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, chili, and tomatoes creates a sauce that is simultaneously simple and packed with depth. The heat from the chili peppers perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of under 30 minutes, Penne all’Arrabbiata is ideal for busy evenings when you crave something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
  3. Versatile: This recipe can be easily customized to suit your spice tolerance. Add more chili for a fiery kick or tone it down for a milder flavor.
  4. Authentic Italian Experience: The recipe stays true to its Italian roots by using traditional ingredients and cooking methods, offering a genuine taste of Italy at home.

Key Ingredients for the Best Penne all’Arrabbiata

  1. Penne Pasta: The ridged texture of penne helps hold the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You can also use ziti or rigatoni if you prefer a slightly different shape.
  2. Tomatoes: High-quality canned crushed tomatoes are the foundation of the sauce. Look for Italian brands, as they tend to offer a richer, sweeter flavor.
  3. Chili Peppers: Fresh cayenne chilies and chili flakes add the signature heat. Adjust the quantity to match your spice preference.
  4. Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering it.
  5. Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil serves as the base for sautéing the aromatics, adding richness and authenticity.
  6. Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkling of grated Parmesan elevates the dish, adding a savory, nutty finish.

Tips for Making Perfect Penne all’Arrabbiata

  1. Use Quality Ingredients: Since the recipe has few ingredients, their quality makes a significant difference. Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes and good-quality olive oil for the best results.
  2. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Italian cooking emphasizes cooking pasta to a firm bite. This ensures the pasta maintains its texture when combined with the sauce.
  3. Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water from cooking the pasta helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky texture.
  4. Balance the Heat: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the chili peppers to your preference. Remember, the spice level intensifies as the sauce simmers.
  5. Serve Fresh: Penne all’Arrabbiata is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve immediately after tossing the pasta with the sauce for maximum flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Penne all’Arrabbiata

While Penne all’Arrabbiata is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides and beverages can elevate the meal:

  1. Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the heat and acidity of the pasta. Try a simple arugula or spinach salad with lemon dressing.
  2. Bread: Serve with warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
  3. Wine: A robust red wine like Chianti or Montepulciano pairs beautifully with the dish’s bold flavors.
  4. Dessert: Finish the meal with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta for a sweet and creamy contrast.

Health Benefits of Penne all’Arrabbiata

  1. Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that promotes heart health and protects against free radicals.
  2. Low in Fat: The recipe uses olive oil, which is a heart-healthy fat, and avoids heavy cream or butter.
  3. Customizable for Dietary Needs: The dish can be made vegan by omitting Parmesan cheese or gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion: A Dish to Savor Anytime

Penne all’Arrabbiata is a testament to the brilliance of Italian cuisine—simple, flavorful, and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of spicy, garlicky, and tangy flavors ensures every bite is packed with excitement.

Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, Penne all’Arrabbiata deserves a spot in your repertoire of go-to pasta dishes. Pair it with a glass of wine, a side of garlic bread, and good company for an unforgettable dining experience. Buon appetito!

 

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