If you’re craving a bold, spicy, and utterly satisfying pasta sauce that’s 100% plant-based, this arrabiata sauce recipe veg is exactly what you need. Arrabiata, which translates to “angry” in Italian, is known for its fiery kick thanks to chili peppers and garlic, balanced by the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes.
This vibrant sauce perfectly complements any pasta and is incredibly easy to make with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
What’s more, this arrabiata sauce is entirely vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it a fantastic option for those embracing plant-based eating or simply wanting a flavorful, hearty meal without meat.
Plus, you can customize the heat level and add your favorite veggies to make it even more nutritious. Ready to spice things up?
Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This arrabiata sauce veg recipe ticks all the boxes for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:
- Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these pantry staples already, making it a fuss-free option for busy weeknights.
- Spicy and tangy: The perfect balance of heat from red chili flakes and the bright acidity of fresh tomatoes.
- Versatile: Use it as a pasta sauce, pizza topping, or even a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
- Vegetarian and vegan: A plant-based sauce that’s hearty enough to satisfy any appetite.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives to tailor it to your taste.
For more delicious plant-based sauces, you might also enjoy our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons | For sautéing and flavor |
Garlic cloves | 4 large, minced | Fresh is best for pungency |
Red chili flakes | 1 to 2 teaspoons | Adjust to your heat preference |
Fresh ripe tomatoes | 6 medium (about 2 pounds), chopped | Or canned whole peeled tomatoes (28 oz) |
Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | Enhances tomato richness |
Salt | To taste (about 1 teaspoon) | Balances flavors |
Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
Fresh basil leaves | 1 handful, chopped | For garnish and aroma |
Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Optional for extra herb flavor |
Vegetables (optional) | 1 cup (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms) | Chopped, for added nutrition |
Equipment
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Medium bowl (if using fresh tomatoes to peel)
- Colander (for rinsing vegetables)
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to ice water. Peel off the skins, remove cores, and roughly chop. If using canned tomatoes, simply crush them with your hands or a spoon.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and warm it until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sauté the garlic and chili flakes: Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden but not burnt. This step infuses the oil with spice and garlic aroma.
- Add optional vegetables: If using bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, add them now. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
- Add the tomatoes and tomato paste: Stir in the chopped or crushed tomatoes along with the tomato paste. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer to thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a deep, rich flavor.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or chili flakes if needed. For a sweeter sauce, add a pinch of sugar.
- Finish with fresh basil: Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
- Serve: Toss the arrabiata sauce with your favorite cooked pasta or use as a dipping sauce. Garnish with extra basil or vegan Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
Tip: For an even smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering to blend the sauce to your preferred consistency.
Variation: Add cooked lentils or tofu cubes for extra protein. You can also spice it up with fresh chopped jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Serving Tip: This sauce freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze half in airtight containers for quick meals later.
Explore more easy and delicious vegetable-based recipes like our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or try this Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for a creamy alternative.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
---|---|
Calories | 110 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 14 g |
Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
Sugars | 6 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Sodium | 380 mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements.
Serving Suggestions
This arrabiata sauce veg pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some tasty serving ideas:
- Tossed with your favorite pasta shapes like penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni for a classic Italian meal.
- Drizzled over roasted vegetables or baked potatoes for a spicy kick.
- Used as a zesty topping for vegan pizzas or flatbreads.
- Mixed into grain bowls with quinoa or rice for a hearty, flavorful lunch.
- As a dipping sauce for crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or even crispy tofu bites.
For more inspiration on plant-based meals, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or this Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish to your meal.
Conclusion
Making your own arrabiata sauce veg at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a fiery, flavorful sauce packed with wholesome ingredients and free from any animal products. This recipe is simple yet incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the heat and add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.
Not only does it bring a taste of Italy right to your kitchen, but it also supports healthy, plant-based eating with minimal effort.
Whether you’re serving it over pasta, using it as a dip, or mixing it into a bowl of grains, this arrabiata sauce is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to experiment with the recipe and try it alongside other delicious dishes like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complete your meal.
Enjoy the spicy, vibrant flavors and happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Arrabiata Sauce Recipe Veg
Description: A spicy and flavorful Italian tomato sauce made with garlic, chili, and fresh herbs. Perfect for pasta or as a dipping sauce.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: 1 small onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and chili flakes; sauté until fragrant.
- Add onion (if using) and cook until translucent.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Add salt, pepper, and sugar; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in fresh parsley and basil.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot with your favorite pasta.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 12 g
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