I’d been dancing around making arrabbiata pasta for years because I love spicy pasta, but never had I taken it to this level of fiery, garlicky drama! And when I tossed the sauce with penne, it was instant love. Plus, just 8 pantry staples required for this Italian classic. Let us show you how it’s done!
What is Arrabbiata?
Arrabbiata is a spicy, tomato-based sauce that originated in the Lazio region of Italy (near Rome). It’s most commonly served with penne pasta as a dish called penne all’arrabbiata. And while the word arrabbiata means “angry” in Italian, eating pasta made with this sauce will make you anything but angry! Instead, it’s a reference to the spiciness of the sauce. Our version strays a bit from the traditional with the additions of maple syrup and vegan parmesan cheese. It’s balanced and full of flavor yet made with easily accessible ingredients. For a more authentic version of the dish, check out this recipe from the lovely Ciao Florentina blog.
How to Make Penne Arrabbiata
Our version starts with cooking the pasta in generously salted water to infuse it with maximum flavor. We did a side-by-side test of salted vs. unsalted pasta water and salting really does give it a boost, friends. But the most important part is the sauce! Crushed red pepper flakes and garlic are sautéed in olive oil until fragrant, being careful not to let them burn as that can lead to a bitter taste. We also sauté the tomato paste to add depth of flavor. Next comes the main component: crushed tomatoes! The better quality tomatoes you use, the better your sauce will taste. And while we prefer Pomi or San Marzano brands, we include three healthy pinches of sea salt and a little maple syrup to enhance the flavors no matter the brand. When ready to serve, we love garnishing with vegan parmesan cheese for a rich, salty finish and fresh basil because tomatoes + basil = love. We hope you LOVE this penne arrabbiata! It’s:RichSaucyGarlickyComforting& SO delicious! It’s a quick and easy weeknight entrée on its own or pairs well with other Italian-inspired dishes. For a comfort food feast, try it with garlic bread or our Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks. Or pack in the veggies by serving with our Easy Vegan Zucchini Boats, Easy Zucchini Fritters, Chickpea Caesar Salad (30 Minutes!), or Vegan Ricotta & Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Salad.
More Delicious Pasta Recipes
Creamy Vegan White Pasta with Summer Vegetables Vegan Pasta Al Limone Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (GF) Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta (Vegan + GF)
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
