🌶️ Spice Things Up: Classic Arrabbiata Pasta Recipe (Vegetarian)

If you're in the mood for bold Italian flavours, look no further than Penne all’Arrabbiata – a fiery tomato sauce that brings together garlic, chilli and parsley in the simplest (yet most satisfying) way. This spicy tomato pasta recipe is perfect for spice lovers, quick weeknight dinners, or anyone craving a comforting bowl of pasta with a kick.

📝 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Italian Arrabbiata sauce:

• 300–400g pasta (penne is traditional, but any shape works)

• 2–3 red chillies (fresh or dried, finely sliced)

• 2–3 garlic cloves (sliced or minced)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 400–500g tomato passata or chopped tomatoes

• A handful of fresh parsley (chopped)

• Salt, to taste

• Optional: Grated parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese

🌱 This recipe is vegetarian, and can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata, which literally means "angry" in Italian, gets its name from the heat of the chillies. But don’t worry – you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water according to packet instructions. Drain and set aside (reserving a bit of pasta water if needed).

2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chillies, and gently sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant – be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add the tomatoes: Pour in your tomato passata or chopped tomatoes. Season with a little salt and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Stir in parsley: Once the sauce is done, add freshly chopped parsley and stir through for freshness.

5. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

6. Serve hot: Top with grated parmesan or a vegetarian alternative if desired.

💡 Tips & Variations

• Control the heat: Adjust the number of chillies depending on your spice tolerance.

• Vegan version: Use vegan cheese or simply skip it – the sauce is full of flavour on its own.

• Add protein: For extra substance, try adding sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas or even grilled tofu.

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🍝 Why You’ll Love This Arrabbiata Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes

• Requires only a handful of ingredients

• Packed with bold, spicy flavour

• Budget-friendly and great for meal prep

🔍 FAQs

Can I use dried chilli flakes instead of fresh chilli?Yes – use around ½ tsp of dried red pepper flakes in place of fresh chillies, or adjust to taste.

What pasta goes best with Arrabbiata sauce?Penne is the classic choice because the sauce clings to the ridges well, but fusilli, rigatoni or spaghetti are all good options.

Enjoy your fiery Italian dinner! 🇮🇹🌶️Let me know how it turns out, or tag your dish using #ArrabbiataLove

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