Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe
Looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch? Look no further than this Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe! Bursting with flavor and made from simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and tangy tomatoes creates a sauce that clings beautifully to al dente penne pasta. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe is Worth Your Time
This Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe is not only incredibly simple to make, but it also delivers on flavor. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to come together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. The spiciness from the red pepper flakes combined with the sweetness of the tomatoes creates a balanced sauce that is both comforting and invigorating. Plus, it’s a vegan-friendly option that can easily be adapted for various dietary preferences. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Gather These Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 (13.5 fluid ounce) cans finely chopped tomatoes with juices
- 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving
- 8 ounces uncooked penne
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet – for making the sauce.
- Wooden spoon – for stirring.
- Colander – for draining the pasta.
- Grater – for fresh parmesan cheese.
Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the 3 large cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Step 3: Add the Spice
Stir in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This will help release the flavors of the spices into the oil.
Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Next, add the 2 cans of finely chopped tomatoes with juices into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If you prefer a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, add in 1 teaspoon of packed brown sugar at this stage.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If needed, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess that complements the spicy sauce beautifully. Enjoy your Easy Pasta Arrabiata!
Variations by Season
- Spring: Add sautéed asparagus or peas for a fresh twist.
- Summer: Toss in cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a burst of seasonal produce.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a cozy, autumnal flavor.
- Winter: Add greens like kale or spinach to boost the nutrient content and flavor.
Notes on Ingredients
Using high-quality canned tomatoes can greatly enhance the flavor of your sauce. Look for brands that use whole tomatoes or are organic for the best results. The brown sugar is optional but can help cut through the acidity of the tomatoes if you find the sauce too tart. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
Prep Ahead & Store
This Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare ahead, consider making the sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free options.
What if I don’t have fresh parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with pre-grated parmesan or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Both will enhance the flavor of the dish!
Can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
How can I make this a complete meal?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. You could also serve it alongside a salad for a well-rounded meal.
What to Make After This
- Easy Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping in your sauce!
- Simple Caesar Salad – A classic pairing for pasta.
- Decadent Chocolate Mousse – End your meal on a sweet note.
- Creamy Pesto Pasta – Another pasta dish to add to your repertoire.
Final Bite
This Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe is the kind of dish that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something utterly delicious. The combination of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors makes it a standout option for any pasta lover. Whether you enjoy it on a busy weeknight or as part of a leisurely dinner with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
With just a few simple steps, you can bring the taste of Italy right to your dining table. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and prepare to indulge in a bowl of pasta that’s bursting with flavor! Bon appétit!
Easy Pasta Arrabiata Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the 3 large cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This will help release the flavors of the spices into the oil.
- Next, add the 2 cans of finely chopped tomatoes with juices into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If you prefer a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, add in 1 teaspoon of packed brown sugar at this stage.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce is ready, add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If needed, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess that complements the spicy sauce beautifully. Enjoy your Easy Pasta Arrabiata!
Notes
- Using high-quality canned tomatoes can greatly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- The brown sugar is optional but can help cut through the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
