There’s something irresistibly tantalizing about a plate of Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil. This classic Italian dish combines the heat of red pepper flakes with the comforting texture of al dente penne pasta. Moreover, the vibrant herbs and rich olive oil elevate the flavors, creating a dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with taste.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to spice up your weeknight routine, this fiery pasta recipe is sure to impress. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal that excites the palate. So, gather your ingredients for this delectable Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil and get ready for a culinary adventure!
Key Ingredients for a Perfect Dish:
Crafting a delightful Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil requires a balanced combination of ingredients that harmonize together. Start with 12 ounces of penne pasta, which serves as the perfect base for this bold dish. For richness and flavor, incorporate 3 tablespoons of olive oil. The foundation is further enhanced by 4 cloves of minced garlic, adding aromatic depth.
The star of the show is the 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes, which create a luscious sauce. To elevate the heat and give it that signature spiciness, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes, adjusting to your preferred spice level. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors shine through.
Don’t forget the finishing touch: 1 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves, which provide a burst of freshness. For those who enjoy a cheesy contrast, serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you’re in the mood for another spicy delight, explore Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese for a different twist!
Ingredients for Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil:
To prepare a delicious plate of Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
This spicy dish marries the robust flavor of crushed tomatoes with the heat of red chili flakes, creating a fiery sauce that clings to the penne pasta beautifully. For those who enjoy a more mellow experience, feel free to adjust the chili flakes according to your preference. The addition of fresh basil and a drizzle of quality olive oil adds a fragrant touch. Once you try this dish, you may also want to explore Jalapeno Popper Mac and Cheese, which offers a delightful combination of flavors as well!
How to Prepare Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil:
To create a mouthwatering dish of Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil, start by boiling 12 ounces of penne pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes, adjusting to your spice preference. Next, pour in one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, allowing it to simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Once the pasta is ready, drain it and toss it into the skillet. Combine thoroughly with the sauce, then fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. For additional spicy inspiration, check out this fantastic recipe to add a spicy twist to your meal prep. Finally, for a detailed guide, visit this recipe on Sublime Cake. Enjoy your delightful pasta creation!
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil:
Pairing your delicious Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil can elevate your dining experience. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad, like a bean salad. This option balances the heat of the arrabbiata sauce with its cool and crunchy textures. The Best Bean Salad: A Refreshing Slimming Delight complements the robust flavors of the pasta beautifully.
For an indulgent touch, crusty bread is a perfect companion. Fresh homemade ciabatta or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich can soak up the spicy sauce delightfully. On the beverage side, a light and refreshing tomato martini can cleanse the palate while enhancing the vibrant flavors of the dish. Lastly, a sprinkle of shaved parmesan on top of the Spicy Penne Arrabbiata adds a lovely creamy contrast and brings everything together. Enjoy your meal with these thoughtful pairings!
Storage Tips for Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil:
Storing your Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil properly will keep it delicious for days. Start by allowing the dish to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and enhance freshness. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves to revive the flavors.
For longer storage, consider freezing your penne arrabbiata. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm as you would after refrigeration. If you’re looking to accompany this spicy pasta dish with something flavorful, try making a delightful jalapeño popper cheese pizza for an additional spicy kick.
Variations and Customizations:
Whether you’re craving a different twist on *Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil* or simply want to elevate your dish, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. You can also spice things up with roasted jalapeños. For another delicious idea, check out this Mapo Chili Mac that infuses exciting flavors. Enjoy experimenting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Spicy Penne Arrabbiata?
Penne Arrabbiata is a classic Italian pasta dish characterized by its spicy tomato sauce. The addition of fresh basil and olive oil elevates this dish into a fragrant experience, perfect for those who enjoy a kick of heat.
How do I make the sauce less spicy?
To reduce the heat, simply decrease the quantity of red pepper flakes or use milder varieties of chili. You can also balance the spice with a touch of sugar or cream.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta of your choice, such as rigatoni or fusilli, to suit your preference.
What can I serve with Spicy Penne Arrabbiata?
A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this spicy delight. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine it with the heated sauce.
Can I find similar recipes on your site?
Certainly! For another spicy option, check out the Mapo Chili Mac. It’s a delightful take on a comforting classic that retains that bold heat.
Print
Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil Recipe
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fiery yet flavorful pasta dish that combines the robust taste of crushed tomatoes with the aromatic goodness of fresh basil and the heat of red chili flakes.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic
minced
1 teaspoon red chili flakes
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
Salt
to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
to taste
1 cup fresh basil leaves
chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional
for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and black pepper, and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of red chili flakes based on your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (~1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Spicy Penne Arrabbiata, Pasta, Basil, Olive Oil, Italian Recipe, Quick Dinner