Craving a fiery kick in your pasta? Look no further than Easy Penne Arrabbiata, a classic Italian dish that’s bursting with bold flavors. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines al dente penne pasta with a zesty tomato sauce, infused with garlic and a touch of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this Penne Arrabbiata is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients List
For the Pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt (for seasoning the water)
- 10-12 ounces penne pasta (gluten-free, if needed)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for finishing, if desired)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2-3 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (plus more for serving)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste (preferably organic, high quality)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (Pomi or San Marzano recommended)
- 3 healthy pinches sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 2-3 teaspoons maple syrup (plus more to taste)
For Serving (Optional)
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (chopped or torn)
Required Kitchen Tools
To prepare Easy Penne Arrabbiata, having the right kitchen tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta and ensuring it cooks evenly.
- Skillet or Saucepan: A good-quality skillet or saucepan is essential for making the Arrabbiata sauce.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce to prevent it from sticking or burning.
- Colander: For draining the pasta after it’s cooked.
- Grater: If you’re using parmesan cheese, a grater will be handy for adding a final touch.
Having these tools ready will make the process of preparing Penne Arrabbiata both efficient and enjoyable.
Cooking the Pasta
Cooking the pasta is the first step in creating your Easy Penne Arrabbiata. Follow these instructions to achieve perfectly cooked penne that will serve as the ideal base for your spicy sauce.
Boiling the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water to season the pasta as it cooks. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the pasta is properly seasoned throughout.
Once the water reaches a boil, add the penne pasta and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it reaches al dente – tender but still firm to the bite.
Draining and Setting Aside
After the pasta has cooked to al dente, carefully drain it using a colander. Reserve a cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later on. Set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the Arrabbiata sauce.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked penne pasta ready to be coated in the rich and spicy Arrabbiata sauce.
Making the Arrabbiata Sauce
Now that your pasta is cooked and set aside, it’s time to make the star of the dish: the Arrabbiata sauce. This sauce is known for its bold, spicy flavors, making it a favorite among those who love a little heat in their meals. Follow these steps to create a sauce that perfectly complements the penne pasta.
Heating the Oil and Garlic
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use water instead of oil, adding more as it evaporates to keep the garlic from burning. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn a light golden brown. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter if it burns.
Adding the Heat
Next, it’s time to add the spice that gives Arrabbiata sauce its signature kick. Add 2-3 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance; you can always add more later if you want extra heat. Stir the red pepper flakes into the garlic and oil, allowing them to release their flavors for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial for infusing the sauce with that classic spicy undertone.
Incorporating Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes
Once the garlic and red pepper flakes are well combined, it’s time to add the tomato base. Begin by stirring in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, ensuring it blends smoothly with the garlic and oil mixture. The tomato paste will help thicken the sauce and intensify its flavor.
After the tomato paste is well incorporated, pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Use a spoon to stir everything together, creating a rich and aromatic sauce. The choice of tomatoes can significantly impact the flavor, so opt for high-quality brands like Pomi or San Marzano for the best results.
Seasoning the Sauce
To balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor, add three healthy pinches of sea salt and 2-3 teaspoons of maple syrup to the sauce. The maple syrup provides a subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavors without overpowering the spice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and taste the sauce to adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or syrup to suit your personal preference.
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. By the end of this simmering time, your Arrabbiata sauce will be thick, aromatic, and bursting with spicy goodness, ready to coat your penne pasta.
Combining the Pasta and Sauce
With your Arrabbiata sauce now rich and flavorful, it’s time to bring everything together by combining the pasta with the sauce. This step is where the penne soaks up all the spicy goodness of the Arrabbiata sauce, making each bite a perfect blend of flavor and texture.
Mixing the Pasta with the Sauce
Begin by adding the cooked and drained penne pasta directly into the skillet or saucepan with the Arrabbiata sauce. Use a large spoon or pasta tongs to gently toss the pasta, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water helps to loosen the sauce while maintaining its rich texture.
Allowing the Flavors to Meld
Once the pasta is well coated, let it sit in the sauce for a minute or two over low heat. This brief cooking time allows the flavors of the sauce to infuse into the pasta, enhancing every bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. The result should be a harmonious blend of spicy sauce clinging to perfectly al dente penne.
Finishing Touches
Before serving, you may want to add a final drizzle of olive oil over the pasta for extra richness. This step is optional but recommended for a glossy finish that enhances the dish’s presentation and taste. You can also taste the pasta at this point and adjust the seasoning with more salt or red pepper flakes if needed, catering to your personal preference for spice and flavor.
Your Easy Penne Arrabbiata is now ready to be served! The combination of the hearty penne pasta and the robust, spicy sauce makes this dish a true Italian classic that’s sure to impress.
Serving Easy Penne Arrabbiata
Now that your Easy Penne Arrabbiata is perfectly cooked and seasoned, it’s time to plate this delicious dish and add the finishing touches. Serving this pasta in a way that enhances its appeal and flavor will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Plating the Penne Arrabbiata
To serve, use a pair of tongs or a large serving spoon to transfer the penne to individual plates or a large serving bowl. Ensure that each serving has a generous amount of sauce clinging to the pasta, as the sauce is the highlight of this dish. The vibrant red color of the Arrabbiata sauce against the pasta creates a visually appealing presentation.
Adding Optional Garnishes
For an extra burst of flavor and a touch of elegance, sprinkle some vegan parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. The cheesy flavor complements the spice of the Arrabbiata sauce and adds a nice, creamy contrast. If you prefer a dairy-free option, there are plenty of vegan parmesan alternatives available that work just as well.
To enhance the freshness of the dish, garnish with freshly chopped or torn basil leaves. The basil not only adds a pop of green color, which contrasts beautifully with the red sauce, but also brings a fragrant, aromatic quality that elevates the overall taste. You can also sprinkle additional crushed red pepper flakes over the top if you prefer more heat.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Penne Arrabbiata pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes an excellent accompaniment, providing a fresh and crisp contrast to the rich and spicy pasta.
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or a light Sangiovese, which complements the tomato-based sauce beautifully.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through, and enjoy your Easy Penne Arrabbiata all over again.
Conclusion
Making Easy Penne Arrabbiata is a straightforward and rewarding experience, bringing a taste of Italy right into your home. With its bold flavors and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and impressing guests with minimal effort. The combination of al dente penne and spicy, garlicky tomato sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors of this classic Italian pasta dish!