Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon salt
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons chili crisp, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons sesame seed oil
- 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Garnishes
- ½ cup parsley, roughly chopped
- ½ cup freshly grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon salt. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add chili crisp and tomato paste: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of chili crisp to the garlic oil, followed by 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the tomato paste to slightly caramelize.
- Incorporate tomatoes and seasoning: Add the entire 28 oz can of whole peeled tomatoes to the skillet, using a spoon to break them down into smaller pieces. Stir in 2 teaspoons sesame seed oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Simmer the sauce on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes to thicken and develop flavor, stirring occasionally.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure all pasta is evenly coated with the spicy, flavorful Arrabbiata sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with roughly chopped parsley, freshly grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese, and a drizzle or dollop of extra chili crisp for added heat and texture if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili crisp according to your preferred spice level.
- Use good quality canned tomatoes for a richer sauce flavor.
- The sesame oil adds a subtle nutty undertone but can be omitted to keep it more traditional.
- For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian