Penne all’Arrabbiata

Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves, minced

olive oil

1 tsp dried chilli flakes

400g of San Marzano tomatoes, (or the best quality you can find)

400g of penne pasta

basil leaves, torn

Instructions:

Step 1:

To begin, heat a tablespoon of olive oil on a low heat in a pan and gently soften the minced garlic.

Take care, as this won’t take long at all and you don’t want any colour on the garlic or it will impart a bitter flavour into the sauce

Step 2:

Add the chilli flakes to the oil, temper for 10 seconds, then add the tin of tomatoes (if they are whole tomatoes, roughly chop them first)

Step 3:

Cook down over a low heat for 10–15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

Taste and add salt and a little sugar if necessary

Step 4:

Cook the penne in a pan of heavily salted boiling water for 8–10 minutes or as per packet instructions

Step 5:

Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain and add it to the sauce, tossing to make sure the pasta is evenly coated

Step 6:

Serve straight away and garnish with torn basil

Nutrition Information:

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (1 cup cooked pasta with sauce)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Absolutely! The spiciness of the dish can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of dried chili flakes.

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Conversely, if you enjoy more heat, feel free to add extra chili flakes.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned San Marzano tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Simply blanch and peel the tomatoes before chopping them roughly.

Fresh tomatoes will add a deliciously vibrant flavor to the dish.

Is it essential to use penne pasta, or can I use another type of pasta?

While penne is traditional for this dish, you can certainly use other types of pasta if you prefer.

Spaghetti, rigatoni, or fusilli are good alternatives that work well with the spicy sauce.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

What can I serve with Penne all’Arrabbiata?

Penne all’Arrabbiata is delicious on its own but can be accompanied by various side dishes.

A simple green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices to complement the flavors of the dish.

Is it necessary to use San Marzano tomatoes, or can I use other types?

While San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for their sweet flavor and low acidity, you can use other varieties of canned tomatoes if San Marzano tomatoes are unavailable.

Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan.

Simply omit the minced garlic and replace it with garlic-infused olive oil to maintain the garlic flavor.

Additionally, use a vegan-friendly pasta and skip the garnish of torn basil or replace it with fresh parsley.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour.

Ensure all other ingredients, including the canned tomatoes and dried chili flakes, are gluten-free as well.

Can I add protein to this dish, such as chicken or shrimp?

Yes, you can add protein to this dish to make it heartier.

Grilled or sautéed chicken breast, shrimp, or even cooked Italian sausage can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and protein.

Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the sauce along with the cooked pasta.

How long will leftovers of Penne all’Arrabbiata last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers of Penne all’Arrabbiata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat the leftovers in a microwave or on the stove until heated through before serving.