Spaghetti Arrabiata – Classic Spicy Italian Pasta Recipe
Dive into the bold flavors of Italy with this Spaghetti Arrabiata recipe, a quintessential dish for spice enthusiasts. This pasta brings together the earthiness of garlic, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the fiery kick of red chili flakes for a meal that’s equal parts simple and satisfying. Perfect for a summer dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with a light salad and a glass of wine. Here’s how to make it at home.
Ingredients
Ingredient
Quantity
Spaghetti Pasta (wheat)
350 grams
Tomatoes (finely chopped)
500 grams
Basil leaves (torn)
1/4 cup
Garlic (finely chopped)
6 cloves
Onion (finely chopped)
1
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons
Red Chili Flakes
2 teaspoons
Sugar
1/2 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper
To taste
Parmesan Cheese
For garnish
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
480 kcal
Carbohydrates
76 grams
Protein
14 grams
Fat
12 grams
Dietary Fiber
6 grams
Sodium
220 mg
Vitamin C
22% DV
Iron
18% DV
Calcium
6% DV
Instructions
Step
Instruction
1
Fill a stock pot with water and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
2
Add the spaghetti pasta and cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
3
Drizzle a little olive oil over the spaghetti to prevent it from sticking, and set it aside.
4
In a large pan or wok, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
5
Add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
6
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, red chili flakes, salt, and sugar. Sauté until the tomatoes soften, about 10-15 minutes, occasionally mashing them for a smoother texture.
7
Add torn basil leaves, and pour in 1/4 to 1/2 cup water if the sauce is too thick. Continue to cook until the sauce reaches a thick, saucy consistency.
8
Taste the sauce, adjusting salt, sugar, and chili as desired. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat slightly and simmer for another 5 minutes.
9
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss for 3-4 minutes until it’s fully coated with the Arrabiata sauce.
10
Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pair with a refreshing Papaya Parsley Salad and enjoy with a glass of wine.
Tips for Perfect Arrabiata Sauce
Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes yield the best flavor. If they’re out of season, canned tomatoes can work well too.
Al Dente Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked until just al dente to hold up to the sauce’s texture and not turn mushy.
Control the Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes to taste. Arrabiata is meant to be spicy, but you can modify it based on your preference.
Finish with Fresh Basil and Parmesan: Both add a delightful freshness and contrast to the spicy sauce.
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