Penne All'Arrabbiata(Milano, Italy)
Penne All'Arrabbiata is a fiery Italian pasta dish featuring a spicy tomato sauce, garlic, and chili flakes. Its bold flavors and simple ingredients make it perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that appeals to those who enjoy a touch of heat and authentic Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and gently fry the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the chili pepper or dried crushed chilies and fry gently for 1 minute.
- Add the canned Italian plum tomatoes with their juice, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook on a high flame, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is reduced and thickened.
- If desired, pass the sauce through a food mill for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking.
- Add chopped parsley just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili or omit it entirely. You can also substitute penne with spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. Adding freshly chopped basil at the end can enhance the flavor, similar to Italian recipes that highlight fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Penne All'Arrabbiata with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. This dish pairs excellently with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Meatless Spaghetti Sauce or Italian Chocolate Cookies(A Very Old Recipe) for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Penne All'Arrabbiata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving for best results, as it can overcook the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne All'Arrabbiata(Milano, Italy) contains roughly 346 calories, with 34g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (504% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (124% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2154mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving to ensure it remains al dente. This can save time on busy nights and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of Italian plum tomatoes?
If you can't find Italian plum tomatoes, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as these may have different moisture levels compared to whole canned tomatoes.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Penne All'Arrabbiata is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following a vegan diet, providing a rich and satisfying flavor profile without any meat or dairy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).