Italian · Vegetarian

Spicy Arrabiata Penne

Spicy Arrabiata Penne features al dente pasta tossed in a vibrant tomato sauce with garlic, red chile flakes, and fresh basil. This bold Italian dish delivers a satisfying kick and rich flavors in every bite.

Spicy Arrabiata Penne
Time 30 min
Serves 4
Cuisine Italian
Print Recipe
The Method

Instructions

First things first, grab a large pot and fill it up with water. Place it over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Once you see that big bubble party, generously sprinkle in some kosher salt. This is your secret to flavorful pasta, so don't be shy! Then, gently add your penne rigate pasta to the bubbling water. Give it a quick stir so the pasta doesn't stick together. Cook it according to the package instructions, which is usually around 9 minutes , until it's perfectly al dente,meaning it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.

While your pasta is cooking away, it's time to create that spicy arrabiata magic. Grab a large skillet and place it on the stove over medium high heat . Pour in the olive oil and let it heat up until you notice it starts to shimmer just a little,that's when you know it's ready to work its flavor magic. Toss in the minced garlic and stir it around for about 1 to 2 minutes . You'll want to watch carefully here because garlic can burn quickly; what you're aiming for is that wonderful, fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.

Next, add the chopped tomatoes straight into the skillet, along with the red chili flakes to give it that signature spicy kick. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning for a lovely herbaceous touch, and don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Turn up the heat just enough to bring everything to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 5 minutes , so the sauce thickens slightly and all those flavors can meld beautifully together.

Once your sauce has simmered and is smelling heavenly, take the skillet off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. This adds a burst of freshness that brightens the spicy tomato sauce perfectly.

By now, your pasta should be ready, so go ahead and drain it well, saving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen up the sauce a bit. Toss the pasta right into the skillet with your sauce, making sure every piece gets coated in that vibrant, spicy goodness.

Finally, plate up your spicy arrabiata penne and top it with generous flakes of Parmigiano Reggiano. Add a few more fresh basil leaves on top for that lovely color and extra fragrance. Serve it warm and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of Italian heat and flavor that's just as delightful as it sounds!
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