Arrabiata Pasta Recipe Veg: Spicy & Easy to Make

Arrabiata pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the perfect balance of heat and tanginess to your dinner table. Originating from Italy, this classic recipe is known for its spicy tomato sauce that beautifully coats every strand of pasta.

The best part? This vegetarian version of arrabiata pasta is packed with fresh ingredients, making it both wholesome and delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh vegetables, you can whip up a bowl of comforting, spicy pasta that pleases the palate and warms the soul. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something robust yet simple.

Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by choosing the right pasta. Let’s dive into this fiery, delicious arrabiata pasta recipe that you and your family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This arrabiata pasta recipe stands out for its bold flavors and simplicity. The sauce is made from scratch using ripe tomatoes, garlic, and dried red chili flakes that add a perfect kick without overwhelming the dish.

It’s a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.

Additionally, this vegetarian version keeps it light without sacrificing taste, and you can customize the heat level according to your preference. It’s also budget-friendly, requiring minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

If you enjoy dishes like our Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and versatility of this pasta sauce.

Finally, it’s a great way to enjoy a comforting Italian classic while keeping the meal wholesome and meat-free. Whether served for lunch or dinner, this arrabiata pasta is sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and hearty.

Ingredients

• 300g dried penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes blended
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan for sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the sauce base: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and chili flakes: Stir in the garlic and red chili flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Simmer the tomato sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add the salt and sugar if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water little by little to achieve your desired texture.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce pan and toss well to coat every piece with the spicy sauce. Cook together for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or its vegan alternative if desired.
8. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta hot and enjoy your fiery, flavorful arrabiata!

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: Use high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes blended for the best flavor. If you want a smokier taste, add a pinch of smoked paprika along with the chili flakes.

If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or deseed fresh chili before adding. For an extra veggie boost, toss in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers alongside the onions.

You can also add olives or capers to introduce some briny notes.

For a vegan version, simply skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Pair the arrabiata sauce with other pasta shapes like spaghetti or rigatoni depending on your preference.

Looking for more vegan inspiration? Check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for a sweet treat or the hearty Half Runner Beans Recipe to balance your meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arrabiata pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red such as Chianti complements the spicy tomato sauce beautifully.

For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or try it alongside our Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to add a flavorful twist to your meal. You can also add a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed greens to round out your dinner plate.

Conclusion

This vegetarian arrabiata pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy an authentic Italian dish that’s both quick and delicious. Bursting with bold flavors from the chili-infused tomato sauce and aromatic garlic, it’s a meal that satisfies your taste buds and provides comfort without heaviness.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor. Easy to customize and adaptable to your heat preferences, it’s a go-to recipe that you’ll return to time and again.

For more inspired meals, explore our collection such as the indulgent Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the delightful Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Enjoy your spicy, comforting bowl of arrabiata pasta, and happy cooking!

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