Description
Penne all’arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish that combines the heat of chili peppers with the richness of tomatoes and garlic. Perfectly balanced with bold, spicy, and savory flavors, this dish is quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. This vegan-friendly recipe delivers a deliciously fiery sauce that will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) penne pasta
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1–2 red chili peppers, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
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1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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Salt to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
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Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
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Prepare the sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chili peppers, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked penne pasta to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Notes
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Protein options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein.
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Veggie boost: Include sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
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Spice level: Adjust the chili peppers to control the heat, or add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
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Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free penne pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté and boil
- Cuisine: Italian
