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Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata Sauce

This Arrabbiata Sauce recipe delivers bold, fiery Italian flavors in under 30 minutes. Combining ripe canned San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and crushed red chili flakes, it creates a vibrant, slightly smoky sauce that adds a spicy kick to any pasta dish. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a versatile sauce for pizza, dipping, and more.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons crushed red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (28 ounces) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed or whole broken up
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Warm the Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook gently until golden and aromatic, being careful not to burn it to avoid bitterness.
  2. Add Crushed Red Chili Flakes: Sprinkle the crushed red chili flakes into the warm oil and garlic, stirring to release their spicy aroma and infuse the oil with heat.
  3. Pour in the Tomatoes: Add the canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushing whole tomatoes with your spoon if needed. Allow the sauce to simmer gently so the tomatoes soften, meld with the spices, and thicken slightly.
  4. Season and Simmer: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to intensify the flavors and reduce to a thick, luscious consistency.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, stir in the fresh chopped parsley or basil to add brightness and a fresh herbal note that complements the spicy tomato base.

Notes

  • Use quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Do not overcook the garlic; it should be softened but not browned.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to develop deep flavors and a rich texture.
  • Adjust the chili flakes gradually to control the heat.
  • Add fresh herbs last to preserve their vibrant color and aroma.
  • Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin.

Nutrition

Keywords: Arrabbiata Sauce, Spicy Pasta Sauce, Italian Sauce, Quick Pasta Sauce, Vegan Sauce, Gluten Free Sauce