Spicy Arrabiata Penne

Spicy Arrabiata Penne

Serves 4 583 kcal per serving Prep 15 min Cook 20 min

Ingredients

  • 1 pound penne rigate
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tin chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chilli flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning
  • 6 leaves basil
  • sprinkling Parmigiano-Reggiano

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Season generously with salt, add the penne and cook until al dente, following the packet instructions.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook gently, stirring, until fragrant but not coloured.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes with their juices, the red chilli flakes and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper, bring to the boil and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from the heat and stir in the chopped basil.
  4. Drain the pasta and add it straight to the sauce. Toss well so the penne are evenly coated.
  5. Divide between serving plates, finish with Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings and extra basil if desired, and serve hot.

Tips

  • Sauté the garlic and chili flakes gently; if the garlic burns, the entire sauce will taste bitter.
  • Use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes and crush them by hand for a rustic, chunky texture.
  • Always reserve a cup of pasta water to emulsify the sauce and help it coat every tube of penne.

Variations

  • Arrabiata with Olives: Add a handful of black olives and capers for a salty, Puttanesca-style kick.
  • Extra Hot: Use fresh bird’s eye chilies instead of dried flakes for a sharper, more intense heat.

Storage

Store the sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days. It freezes perfectly for up to 3 months. Toss with fresh pasta only when ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish with a handful of fresh parsley and a drizzle of spicy chili oil.
  • Avoid using too much cheese; the beauty of Arrabiata is its sharp, clean tomato and chili flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'Arrabiata' mean?

It translates to ‘angry,’ referring to the heat of the chili peppers in the sauce.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Penne Rigate (with ridges) is traditional because the sauce gets trapped inside the tubes and on the ridges.

Do I have to use parsley?

While basil is common in tomato sauces, parsley is the more traditional herb for a classic Roman Arrabiata.

instructions_source: editorial-classic