Pasta Arrabbiata

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Pasta Arrabbiata is a bold and spicy Italian classic that’s incredibly simple to make. It features a rich tomato sauce infused with onion, garlic, chili pepper and red pepper flakes for the perfect amount of heat and flavor. Serve with fresh basil, Parmesan and a side of garlic bread for a winning dinner!

Prep Time5

Cook Time25

Total Time30

Course: Main

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Arrabbiata sauce

Servings: people

Author: Layla Atik

Equipment

Ingredients

½ medium onion finely chopped
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves crushed or minced
1 fresh cayenne chili pepper chopped (remove seeds if you don’t want heat)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomato
1 teaspoon salt or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
6-8 basil leaves chopped
8-12 ounces pasta of choice
freshly grated Parmigiano cheese optional

Instructions

Make the Arrabbiata Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-duty skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook on medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the onion is golden on the edges. Add the garlic, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Saute for just 30 seconds or until the edges of the garlic begin to turn golden then pour in the crushed tomato and season generously with salt & pepper. Bring to a boil then lower the heat, partially cover with the lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, fill a large pot 2/3 full with water and generously season with salt. Add the pasta and cook al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water aside, then drain the pasta.
Combine: Add the pasta to the sauce and ½ cup of reserved pasta water. Add in the chopped basil and turn up the heat. Mix the pasta into the sauce for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors come together.
Serve: Remove from heat and divide into pasta bowls. Garnish with more freshly chopped basil or chopped parsley, and/or freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition