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Penne Arrabbiata Recipe Easy 15-Minute Quick Flavor Meal

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A quick and easy penne arrabbiata recipe that delivers a perfect balance of spicy heat, garlicky punch, and fresh tomato sweetness in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 28 ounces (800 grams) canned crushed tomatoes
  • A small handful fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon for sauce plus salted pasta water)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add about 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
  2. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 11-13 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add 4 finely minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes and stir for 30 seconds to release their flavor. Adjust to taste.
  6. Pour in 28 ounces (800 grams) of canned crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Add about 1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed. Optionally add a pinch of sugar if sauce is too acidic.
  8. Once pasta is al dente, reserve about ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water, then drain the rest in a colander.
  9. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece of penne.
  10. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time if the sauce feels too thick to help it cling to the pasta.
  11. Remove from heat and stir in a small handful of chopped fresh basil leaves.
  12. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Do not brown the garlic to avoid bitterness. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use good quality red chili flakes for best flavor. Simmer sauce gently to develop flavor without drying out. Adjust chili flakes to taste for desired heat level.

Nutrition

Keywords: penne arrabbiata, quick pasta recipe, spicy pasta, Italian pasta, easy dinner, 15-minute meal

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/penne-arrabbiata-recipe-easy-15-minute-quick-flavor-meal/