Penne Arrabbiata Spicy Tomato Pasta Recipe
Penne Arrabbiata Spicy Tomato Pasta Recipe is a bold and comforting Italian dish loved by spice lovers. This pasta is famous for its rich tomato sauce and fiery chili heat. It feels simple, yet very satisfying. Many home cooks search for a Penne Arrabbiata Spicy Tomato Pasta Recipe that tastes authentic and easy.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta 400 grams
- Olive oil 4 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves 5 finely chopped
- Red chili flakes 1 to 2 teaspoons
- Crushed tomatoes 2 cups
- Tomato paste 1 tablespoon
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Sugar ½ teaspoon
- Fresh basil leaves chopped
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Pasta water ½ cup reserved
- Grated parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
Boil the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water. Add salt generously. Boil penne pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water. Drain well.
Heat the Olive Oil
- Place a wide pan on medium heat. Add olive oil. Let it warm gently without smoking.
Cook the Garlic
- Add chopped garlic to hot oil. Stir constantly. Cook until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
Add Chili Flakes
- Sprinkle red chili flakes into the oil. Stir for thirty seconds. This releases spicy flavor into the oil.
Add Tomatoes
- Pour crushed tomatoes into the pan. Add tomato paste. Stir well. Let sauce simmer gently.
Season the Sauce
- Add salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well. Let sauce cook until thick and rich.
Add Pasta Water
- Pour reserved pasta water slowly. Stir gently. This helps sauce stick to pasta better.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add drained penne pasta to the sauce. Toss well until pasta is fully coated.
Finish with Herbs
- Turn off heat. Add chopped basil and parsley. Mix gently. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve Hot
- Serve Penne Arrabbiata Spicy Tomato Pasta hot. Top with parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use San Marzano tomatoes for best flavor and sweetness.
- Always salt pasta water well. It should taste like sea water.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your spice tolerance.
- Add olives for a salty Mediterranean twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
- Use whole wheat penne for a healthier version.
- Finish with extra olive oil for richer taste.
- Fresh herbs always taste better than dried ones.