Arrabiata Pasta Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Flavorful Guide

Spicy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, Arrabiata pasta is a classic Italian dish that packs a punch with its fiery tomato sauce. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat but want to keep things vegetarian, this pasta recipe combines the simplicity of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and chili peppers to deliver a robust and comforting meal.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with your culinary skills, this vegetarian arrabiata pasta recipe is easy to whip up and leaves a lasting impression.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of bold flavors and minimal ingredients, making it a fantastic go-to meal in your kitchen. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan with a few tweaks.

Dive into this recipe, and discover how easy it is to create a spicy Italian classic that warms the soul and delights the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Arrabiata pasta recipe is a celebration of simplicity and bold flavors. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Fresh Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples and fresh garlic and chili for that authentic taste.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice preference.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: Naturally free from meat, and can be made vegan by skipping cheese or using plant-based alternatives.
• Rich in Flavor: The slow-simmered tomato sauce develops a deep, satisfying taste.

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) penne pasta or your preferred pasta shape
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1-2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes or fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, a handful, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese alternative, for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Prepare the sauce base: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
3. Add chili flakes: Stir in the red chili flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their heat and aroma.
4. Simmer the tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Adjust sauce consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help it cling to the pasta.
6. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece evenly. Warm through for 1-2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
7. Finish with herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, reserving a little for garnish.
8. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese if desired. Garnish with parsley and extra basil leaves for a fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To mellow the heat, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity and spice of the sauce.

• Make it vegan: Use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative instead of cheese.
• Add vegetables: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Use fresh tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, peel them by blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds before chopping.
• Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to the sauce for a protein-rich vegetarian meal.
• Herb swap: Try oregano or thyme if basil isn’t available for a different herbal note.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This spicy Arrabiata pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the heat.
• Warm crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce—try making your own with our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe.
• For dessert, cool down with a creamy treat like the Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs.
• If you want a light juice to refresh your palate, try the Green Goodness Juice Recipe for a burst of nutrients.

Conclusion

Arrabiata pasta is a fantastic vegetarian option that combines simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and heat. This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated steps or exotic components to create a memorable meal.

The balance of fiery chili, aromatic garlic, and rich tomato sauce makes it a go-to comfort food with an Italian twist.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. It’s also highly adaptable to your taste and dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

So, grab your pasta and get ready to enjoy a spicy, satisfying, and wholesome meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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