Garlic, red chili flakes, and briny Kalamata olives form the backbone of this rustic Arrabiata pasta. By simmering high-quality peeled tomatoes with a splash of starchy pasta water and handfuls of fresh basil, the sauce develops a silky, clingy consistency that coats each penne noodle perfectly.
This preparation relies on a slow simmer to soften the tomatoes into a deep, jammy base, allowing the heat from the chili to mellow and distribute evenly. It is a straightforward approach that leans on pantry staples to create a meal with enough depth to feel like it spent hours on the stove.
Finished with a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese, the dish hits that balance between sharp acidity and subtle sweetness. It serves well as a reliable weeknight dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, providing a satisfying, restaurant-style pasta experience right at home.
Read Full StoryIf you enjoy the bold, spicy kick of a classic Arrabiata sauce, you might want to experiment with other ways to dress up your favorite noodles. While a spicy tomato base is a pantry staple, those looking for something cooler and tangier might prefer the comfort of a creamy yogurt-based pasta dish, which offers a unique Mediterranean profile that balances heat with cooling acidity.
Key Ingredients
- Penne pasta: The primary pasta shape used as the foundation for the sauce.
- Canned Italian tomatoes: These form the base of the sauce, breaking down to create a thick, savory consistency.
- Garlic: Sautéed in olive oil to provide a sharp, aromatic base for the tomato sauce.
- Red chilli flakes: Adjusted to personal preference to provide the signature heat of an Arrabiata sauce.
- Kalamata olives: Added to the sauce to contribute a distinct salty and briny depth.
- Fresh basil: Stirred in during the final stages to add a bright, herbal finish.
- Parmesan cheese: Used as a savory garnish to add richness to the finished dish.
More Quick Pasta Dinners to Try
- Shish Barak with pasta is a great way to combine traditional meat dumplings with an easy noodle base for a heartier, comforting meal.
- For a sophisticated seafood option, try this simple salmon pasta, which relies on garlic and olive oil rather than heavy sauces for a clean finish.
- If you crave something richer, our creamy salami pasta uses cured meats to build deep, savory layers that satisfy those mid-week hunger pangs.
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