Before we dive into the spicy arrabbiata sauce itself, let’s talk about what makes this fiery condiment truly shine. It’s not just about tossing it onto pasta; it’s versatile! Here are some dishes that pair beautifully with spicy arrabbiata sauce:
Pasta Varieties: Of course, classic spaghetti or penne works wonders. However, consider trying it with fusilli or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb alternative.
Protein-Packed Dishes: Spicy arrabbiata sauce is fantastic drizzled over grilled chicken or shrimp. The heat complements the protein beautifully.
Hearty Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers can be elevated with this sauce. Just add a generous dollop and watch them transform.
Pizza Base: Swap out regular pizza sauce for arrabbiata sauce for a zesty kick on your next homemade pizza.
As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I often find myself enamored with the perfect blend of flavors in Italian cuisine. Recently, I rediscovered the rich allure of spicy arrabbiata sauce. It’s a delightful concoction bursting with warmth and zest. Perfect for pasta, it adds character and a kick to meals, ensuring you never serve bland dishes again. I’ll guide you on how to whip up this fantastic sauce at home, delve into its essence, and sprinkle in some tips to make this dish shine.
What is Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce?
Spicy arrabbiata sauce, originating from the Lazio region of Italy, blends tomatoes, garlic, and chili peppers. Its name—“arrabbiata”—means “angry” in Italian, reflecting the electric heat from the chili peppers.
This sauce is known for its simplicity and ability to pack flavor without requiring hours of preparation. Anyone can make it, even if you’re a rookie in the kitchen.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine a sauce that dances on the palate, delivering a fiery punch from the red pepper flakes and a rich, savory depth from the tomatoes.
It’s slightly sweet from the tomatoes and enriched with fragrant garlic, all rounded out by the freshness of herbs like basil. It’s a flavor explosion that enhances any dish it graces.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity of Ingredients: The sauce relies on a few pantry staples. No rare ingredients here. This means anyone can whip it up, regardless of their cooking experience.
Balance of Flavors: Using sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes creates a harmonious experience. The sweetness offsets the heat, making for a well-rounded sauce.
Customizable Heat Level: You control the heat level! By adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes, you cater it to your own taste or that of your dinner guests.
Quick Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With a cooking time of around 20 minutes, it’s a simple way to prepare a delicious meal without stress.
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Ingredients for Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
- 1 tablespoon double-concentrated tomato paste
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 cans (400g/14oz each) whole San Marzano tomatoes
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- About 10g fresh basil leaves, coarsely torn (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by heating the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The oil should shimmer, an indication it’s ready for the next step.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once the onion is softened, toss in the minced garlic. This step adds a fragrant aroma that’ll fill your kitchen. Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic but not browned. Burnt garlic can spoil the sauce’s flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Next, add the tomato paste, dried oregano, and sea salt. Stir this mixture well for about 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the paste, intensifying the flavors in the sauce.
Step 4: Introduce Tomatoes
Open those cans of San Marzano tomatoes. Carefully add them to the skillet, breaking them apart with a spoon as they go in. This creates a rich base for your sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Season
Add the sugar along with the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld. You may need to adjust the heat level at this stage. Taste and add more red pepper if you’re feeling daring.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
Once simmered, take the pot off the heat and finish with the chopped basil leaves. This last step adds a fresh, vibrant note to the sauce.
Notes
Storing Fresh Basil: If using fresh basil, remember to add it off the heat to preserve its flavor.
Scaling Up: This sauce can easily be doubled or tripled. Make a big batch and freeze portions for later use!
Using Fresh Tomatoes: If summer tomatoes are in season, consider using fresh ones for an even more delightful flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: This sauce is naturally vegetarian and can be vegan. Just ensure that no cheese is added to the final dish.
Serving: This sauce is fantastic for both immediate dishes and also as a base for lasagna or stuffed peppers.
Nutrition Information
One serving of spicy arrabbiata sauce (approximately ½ cup) contains:
Calories: 120
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 280mg
Total Carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values can change depending on what you serve it with.
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you have any leftover sauce, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat on the stovetop before using. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in small portions. Use ice cube trays for easy-to-thaw servings. Once frozen, transfer to a larger container for ultimate convenience!
Sides for Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
Garlic Bread: Nothing beats garlic bread alongside a plate of spicy pasta. It’s perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce.
Arugula Salad: A simple salad with arugula dressed in olive oil and lemon juice adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with the sauce’s heat.
Grilled Vegetables: Pair with charred zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. The smoky flavors enhance the dish beautifully.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy and comforting, polenta acts as a soothing base for the spicy sauce, offering a luscious mouthfeel.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Tomato Paste: If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use regular canned tomatoes and cook them down longer until they thicken.
Oregano: No oregano? Try Italian seasoning as a substitute; it blends various herbs to give a nice depth.
San Marzano Tomatoes: Any canned whole tomatoes work if San Marzano isn’t available. Just ensure they’re high-quality for the best taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: You can substitute with fresh chili peppers for a different flavor profile.
Equipment
- skillet
- pan
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon double-concentrated tomato paste
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 cans 400g/14oz each whole San Marzano tomatoes
- 4 large garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- About 10g fresh basil leaves coarsely torn (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The oil should shimmer, an indication it’s ready for the next step.
Step 2: Add Garlic
- Once the onion is softened, toss in the minced garlic. This step adds a fragrant aroma that’ll fill your kitchen. Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic but not browned. Burnt garlic can spoil the sauce’s flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasonings
- Next, add the tomato paste, dried oregano, and sea salt. Stir this mixture well for about 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the paste, intensifying the flavors in the sauce.
Step 4: Introduce Tomatoes
- Open those cans of San Marzano tomatoes. Carefully add them to the skillet, breaking them apart with a spoon as they go in. This creates a rich base for your sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Season
- Add the sugar along with the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld. You may need to adjust the heat level at this stage. Taste and add more red pepper if you’re feeling daring.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
- Once simmered, take the pot off the heat and finish with the chopped basil leaves. This last step adds a fresh, vibrant note to the sauce.
Notes
- Storing Fresh Basil: If using fresh basil, remember to add it off the heat to preserve its flavor.
- Scaling Up: This sauce can easily be doubled or tripled. Make a big batch and freeze portions for later use!
- Using Fresh Tomatoes: If summer tomatoes are in season, consider using fresh ones for an even more delightful flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: This sauce is naturally vegetarian and can be vegan. Just ensure that no cheese is added to the final dish.
- Serving: This sauce is fantastic for both immediate dishes and also as a base for lasagna or stuffed peppers.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make spicy arrabbiata sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for about a week. You can also freeze portions for later use.
2. How spicy is arrabbiata sauce, really?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with one teaspoon of red pepper flakes and add more if you desire extra heat.
3. What pasta shapes work best with spicy arrabbiata sauce?
Traditionally, short pasta like penne or rigatoni is preferred because the sauce clings to their surfaces. However, long pasta like spaghetti is equally fantastic.
4. Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach enhances the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
Conclusion
Cooking spicy arrabbiata sauce is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this versatile sauce never disappoints. It brings heat, flavor, and heartiness to any dish, ensuring satisfaction with every bite. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; a world of flavor awaits!