Penne all’Arrabbiata Recipe: Spicy and Tangy Pasta Delight
Penne all’Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its bold flavors and fiery kick. The name “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, reflecting the spiciness of the dish. This simple yet satisfying recipe brings together perfectly cooked penne pasta with a zesty tomato sauce infused with garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 to 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Boil the Penne:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Prepare the Arrabbiata Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked and drained penne to the sauce, tossing to coat each pasta evenly in the Arrabbiata sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Serve:
- Plate the Penne all’Arrabbiata in individual servings.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and, if desired, a generous sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese.
5. Enjoy:
- Serve this fiery and flavorful pasta immediately, savoring the perfect balance of heat and tang in each bite.
Penne all’Arrabbiata is a dish that exemplifies the beauty of Italian simplicity, allowing the quality of the ingredients and the harmony of flavors to shine. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just looking for a zesty twist on classic pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Buon Appetito!
