Calabrian Chili Arrabbiata Pasta (Printable version)

Pasta in spicy tomato sauce with Calabrian chili and cheese, perfect for sharing. Vegetarian, bold Italian flavor.

# List of ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 14 oz dried penne pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
04 - 2 to 3 Calabrian chili peppers in oil, finely chopped or 2 teaspoons Calabrian chili paste
05 - 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
06 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
08 - 1 teaspoon sugar, optional
09 - 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn

→ To Serve

10 - 0.5 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, optional
11 - Extra Calabrian chili or chili flakes, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the dried penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 0.5 cup of cooking water, then drain the pasta.
02 - While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, about 1 minute.
03 - Incorporate the chopped Calabrian chilies or chili paste and cook for 30 seconds, stirring continuously to release their aroma.
04 - Pour in canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushing them gently with a spoon. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and sugar if desired. Mix thoroughly.
05 - Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces slightly and thickens.
06 - Fold in the torn basil leaves and adjust seasoning to taste.
07 - Introduce the drained penne pasta to the sauce. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
08 - Immediately plate the pasta and garnish with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese and additional Calabrian chili or chili flakes as preferred.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in about half an hour
  • Every ingredient is easy to find at most markets
  • Customizable spice level to suit everyone at the table
  • Vegetarian and simple to tweak for vegans or gluten-free diets
  • Fresh basil lifts the whole dish while sharp cheese adds perfect finish
02 -
  • Packed with capsaicin for spicy satisfaction
  • Vegetarian and quick to adapt for vegan or gluten-free needs
  • Freezes beautifully for meal prep or leftovers
03 -
  • Toast garlic slowly in olive oil because rushing can burn and turn the flavor bitter
  • Crushing tomatoes by hand instead of using a processor gives a hearty rustic texture

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