tagAlt.Arrabbiata sauce, spicy Italian tomato sauce in a wooden bowl

Authentic Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta Sauce

This signature pasta sauce, made with garlic and chili flakes, delivers bold flavor and heat—perfect when tossed with penne.
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tagAlt.Arrabbiata sauce, spicy Italian tomato sauce in a wooden bowl

Arrabbiata sauce is celebrated as one of the boldest and most vibrant condiments in traditional Italian cooking, distinguished by its assertive chili pepper heat.

Hailing from the Lazio region—also the origin of iconic sauces such as carbonara and cacio e pepe—the name 'arrabbiata' directly alludes to the fiery sensation delivered by hot chili peppers.

This sauce combines a straightforward ingredient list with a robust flavor profile, making it accessible to cooks at any level. The heat can be adjusted to taste, ensuring a personalized balance between spiciness and savoriness.

For extra flavor complexity, Pecorino Romano DOP cheese may be added, though the sauce is equally delicious when enjoyed in its pure, traditional form.

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Ingredients

for 4 servings

Arrabbiata Sauce Ingredients

  • Garlic Cloves 1
  • Chilli Pepper 3
  • Canned tomato 380 grams
  • Salt as needed
  • Extra-virgin olive oil as needed
  • Parsley bunch as needed

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Preparation

for 4 servings

Step

1

Of 3

Process and Purée the Tomatoes

Drain the canned peeled tomatoes thoroughly to remove any excess liquid.

Place the drained tomatoes in a bowl and mash them using a fork until a coarse purée is achieved.

Step

2

Of 3

Sauté Garlic and Chili in Olive Oil

Finely chop the dried chili peppers with a knife or crumble them by hand, taking care not to touch your face or eyes.

Pour a generous amount of olive oil into a skillet. Add the peeled garlic clove and chopped chili peppers.

Sauté for about two minutes to infuse the oil, then add the mashed tomatoes to the pan.

Step

3

Of 3

Simmer Sauce and Finalize

Combine all the ingredients in the pan and season with salt as needed. Cover with a lid and allow the sauce to gently simmer for approximately 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove the lid, extract the garlic clove, and your spicy arrabbiata sauce is ready to elevate your favorite pasta dish.

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