Penne all’Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its fiery and flavorful tomato sauce. The name “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, which perfectly describes the spicy kick of this dish. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the complexity of the flavours, with the heat from chilli peppers complemented by the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the depth of garlic and herbs.

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This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their pasta and crave a comforting and exciting dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a glass of red wine for a satisfying meal that will leave you warm and content.

Penne all’Arrabbiata Recipe

Recipe by Owais

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

Ingredients:

• 350g (12 oz) penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 800g (28 oz) canned diced tomatoes

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

• Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, stirring to combine with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
• Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and toss again.
• Serve the penne all’Arrabbiata hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Ideas for Serving

• With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
• Garlic Bread: Accompany the pasta with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Wine Pairing: To enhance the flavours, pair with a glass of Italian red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Sugar: 8g

History

Penne all’Arrabbiata is a traditional dish from the Lazio region of Italy, particularly popular in Rome. Its name reflects the spicy nature of the sauce, which is said to “anger” the taste buds with its heat. The dish is a staple in Roman cuisine, celebrated for its straightforward preparation and bold flavors. Over the years, it has become a favourite among those who enjoy a bit of spice in their pasta.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sauce in advance?

A: Yes, the arrabbiata sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Q: How can I adjust the spice level?

A: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to your preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and add more if you enjoy a spicier dish.

Q: Is this dish vegan?

A: Yes, Penne all’Arrabbiata is naturally vegan. Just ensure any additional toppings or sides, like Parmesan cheese, are vegan-friendly if needed.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

A: Absolutely! You can use fresh tomatoes, especially when in season. Blanch, peel, and crush them before using in the recipe.