Ingredients:
• 400g Penne pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 can of whole tomatoes (400g)
• Salt to taste
• Basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Pecorino cheese for topping (optional)
Method:
1. Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil and then add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to instructions or until it’s al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for one minute or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic as it will give a bitter taste.
3. Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir. Cook for another minute until the flakes turn slightly brown.
4. Pour the can of whole tomatoes into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes into small pieces. Stir the mixture well and reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until it thickens. Add salt to taste.
6. Drain the pasta once it’s ready.
7. Combine the cooked pasta and the sauce in the skillet over low heat, stirring well to coat the pasta in the sauce.
8. Divide the pasta evenly among the serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated pecorino cheese (optional).
Pasta all’arrabbiata is a versatile dish and can be served as a main course or as a side dish with grilled chicken or beef. You can also add other ingredients to this recipe such as olives, capers, and onions. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more red pepper flakes to the sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
One tip for making this dish is to use good quality tomatoes as they will affect the flavor of the sauce. Additionally, do not overcook the pasta as this can result in a mushy and unappetizing dish. Remember to drain the pasta well using a colander to remove excess water.
In conclusion, pasta all’arrabbiata is an easy and delicious Italian dish that you can make at home. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a flavorful and spicy tomato sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. So, put on your apron and follow the recipe above to create this iconic Italian dish. Buon appetito!